Effect of wettability and silicone surface modification on the self-cleaning functionalization of wool

Self-cleaning wool has been realized by treatment with a colloidal sol of anatase nanocrystals. However, the mechanical properties of wool have been significantly deteriorated following the self-cleaning functionalization treatment. To minimize the undesirable side-effects induced by the nanocoating, a silicone surface modification post-treatment has been introduced. The change in mechanical properties of TiO₂-coated wool after modification with silicone was examined, and the effect of this process on the photocatalytic activity and its stability was assessed by a degradation test of food stains. Moreover, the wettability of wool has been modified using different nonionic wetting agents, in an attempt to shorten the wetting time during dip-coating and the absorption rate was compared. The effect of wetting agents on the functionalization process and the photocatalytic activity was examined. The synchronized effect of wettability and silicone surface modification on the self-cleaning functionalization of wool was also studied. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.