Preparation of Antibacterial and UV-Protective Cotton through Coating with TiO₂-Modified Chitosan-Based Schiff Bases

Abstract

Textiles with antibacterial and antiultraviolet properties have gained significant attention because of their ability to protect the human body. This study presents the design and synthesis of a Schiff base for chitosan modified with salicylaldehyde and titanium dioxide (SCSB-Si-TiO 2 ). SCSB-Si-TiO 2 was coated onto cotton fabrics by using a layer-by-layer self-assembly method, resulting in functional cotton fabrics (SCSB-Si-TiO 2 /cotton) with excellent antibacterial and antiultraviolet properties. This functional textile demonstrated excellent antibacterial effects with inhibition rates of 95.22% against Escherichia coli and 98.99% against Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, SCSB-Si-TiO 2 /cotton exhibited outstanding antiultraviolet characteristics, with a ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) value of 110.9, and maintained a UPF value above 82 even after 25 washing cycles. Additionally, SCSB-Si-TiO 2 /cotton exhibited good hydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 123.6°. The breathability of SCSB-Si-TiO 2 /cotton decreased slightly, and its tensile strength increased, which was sufficient to meet daily life requirements. This study presents an approach to the development of multifunctional textiles.