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Enhanced Moisture Management in Textiles via Spray-Coated Water-Based Polyhydroxyalkanoate Dispersions
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Researchers developed an eco-friendly spray coating for textiles using an aqueous dispersion of the biopolymer poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)-diol, demonstrating that this water-based polyhydroxyalkanoate finish significantly improves moisture transport and breathability without relying on conventional petroleum-derived coatings.
Developing sustainable textile finishes that enhance moisture management and breathability remains a significant challenge in designing high-performance apparel. In this study, we propose an eco-friendly coating strategy utilizing an aqueous dispersion of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate)-diol (PHB.E.0), a member of the polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) family. This coating was applied to woven polyester (PES) and cotton (CO) fabrics using a low-impact spray-coating technique, aiming to improve functional properties while maintaining environmental sustainability. This solvent-free process significantly reduces chemical usage and energy demand, aligning with sustainable manufacturing goals. Successful deposition of the coating was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), elemental (C/O) analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which also revealed substrate-dependent thermal behaviour. Wettability, water absorption, and permeability tests showed that the coated fabrics retained their hydrophilic character. PHB.E.0 coatings led to a significant reduction in air permeability, particularly after hot pressing at 180 °C, from ≈670 to ≈171 L·m−2 s−1 for PES and from ≈50 to ≈30 L·m−2·s−1 for CO, without compromising water vapor permeability. All coated samples maintained high breathability, essential for wearer comfort. These results demonstrate that PHB.E.0 coatings enhance wind resistance while preserving moisture vapor transport, offering a sustainable and effective solution for functional sportswear.
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Enhanced Moisture Management in Textiles via Spray-Coated Water-Based Polyhydroxyalkanoate Dispersions
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Researchers developed a sustainable textile coating using an aqueous dispersion of the biodegradable polyester poly(3-hydroxybutyrate), applying it to polyester and cotton fabrics via spray coating to significantly improve wind resistance while maintaining high breathability and moisture vapor permeability essential for sportswear performance.
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