We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microencapsulation for Functional Textile Coatings with Emphasis on Biodegradability—A Systematic Review
Summary
This systematic review found that microencapsulation techniques for functional textile coatings are well-established for conventional shell materials, but biodegradable alternatives remain limited and often sacrifice durability. The review identified that most microcapsule shell materials are synthetic polymers that can contribute to microplastic pollution when they degrade from textile surfaces during washing. Developing truly biodegradable microcapsule formulations is essential for reducing the microplastic fiber shedding that makes textiles one of the largest sources of microplastic pollution.
The review provides an overview of research findings on microencapsulation for functional textile coatings. Methods for the preparation of microcapsules in textiles include in situ and interfacial polymerization, simple and complex coacervation, molecular inclusion and solvent evaporation from emulsions. Binders play a crucial role in coating formulations. Acrylic and polyurethane binders are commonly used in textile finishing, while organic acids and catalysts can be used for chemical grafting as crosslinkers between microcapsules and cotton fibres. Most of the conventional coating processes can be used for microcapsule-containing coatings, provided that the properties of the microcapsules are appropriate. There are standardised test methods available to evaluate the characteristics and washfastness of coated textiles. Among the functional textiles, the field of environmentally friendly biodegradable textiles with microcapsules is still at an early stage of development. So far, some physicochemical and physical microencapsulation methods using natural polymers or biodegradable synthetic polymers have been applied to produce environmentally friendly antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory or fragranced textiles. Standardised test methods for evaluating the biodegradability of textile materials are available. The stability of biodegradable microcapsules and the durability of coatings during the use and care of textiles still present several challenges that offer many opportunities for further research.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic label in microencapsulation field – Consequence of shell material selection
This review examines whether microcapsules used in consumer products like laundry detergents and fabric conditioners should be classified as microplastics under proposed EU regulations. Many of these tiny polymer shells are not biodegradable and could persist in aquatic environments after product use, making their regulatory classification important for reducing intentional microplastic releases. The review argues that shell material selection is the key factor determining whether a microcapsule qualifies as a microplastic, with significant implications for product reformulation across the personal care industry.
Design of Biodegradable PU Textile Coating
Researchers developed a biodegradable polyurethane coating for textiles as an alternative to conventional coatings that contribute to microplastic pollution when they end up in landfills. The new coating achieved nearly 60% biodegradation in soil while maintaining acceptable water barrier and mechanical properties. The study demonstrates that functional textile coatings can be designed to break down naturally, reducing their long-term environmental impact.
Micro- and Nanoplastics Produced from Textile Finishes: A Review
This review examines how textile finishes and coatings contribute to micro- and nanoplastic pollution during washing and wear. Researchers found that polymeric-based finishes applied to textiles can release significant quantities of plastic particles, identifying the textile industry as an underexplored but important source of environmental microplastic contamination.
Aromatherapy in Textiles: A Systematic Review of Studies Examining Textiles as a Potential Carrier for the Therapeutic Effects of Essential Oils
This systematic review of studies on aromatherapy textiles found that microencapsulation is the most effective method for incorporating essential oils into fabrics for sustained therapeutic release. The research explores how textile fibers can serve as carriers for bioactive compounds delivered through skin contact. The study is relevant to microplastic concerns because synthetic textile fibers used as aromatherapy carriers are the same fibers that shed microplastics during washing and wear.
Microplastic pollution from textiles: A literature review
This review examines the current state of knowledge on microplastic pollution, focusing specifically on synthetic microfibre shedding from textiles during washing and the significance of this source for marine and freshwater contamination.