Self-cleaning surface functionalisation of keratins : Effect of heat treatment and formulation preparation time on photocatalysis and fibres mechanical properties

Heat treatment is an important process to facilitate the fixation of titanium dioxide particles on the surface of various substances. The interfacial binding of titanium dioxide particles is critical in affecting the photocatalytic activities of the functionalised material. Hence, the effect of heat treatment on the self-cleaning properties was investigated. Moreover, fibres physical and mechanical properties form one of the criteria to determine the usability of the fibres. Therefore, in order to widen the application and enhance the feasibility of the self-cleaning functionalisation process, the effect of titanium dioxide formulation on the low stress mechanical properties of the fibres was studied. © 2010 Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining.