Towards superhydrophobic and ultraviolet protective nylon fabrics

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to prepare coloured superhydrophobic and ultraviolet (UV) protective nylon fabrics using nanosilica copper oxide coating. Design/methodology/approach In this study, brown coloured superhydrophobic nylon fabric exhibiting UV protective properties was prepared by step-wise deposition of silica nanoparticles, copper oxide and sodium stearate. The hydrophobicity of treated fabrics was characterised by water contact angle measurement and UV protection properties of fabric were assessed by Australian/New Zealand Standard. Also, a colouring effect of treatment on nylon fabric was measured using spectrophotometer. Findings The modified fabric not only exhibited superhydrophobicity with the water contact angle of 150.6°, but also rendered excellent protection against UV radiation. The fabric showed retention of hydrophobic and UV protection properties up to 20 washing cycles. Originality/value A novel method for imparting superhydrophobicity and UV protective properties along with colouration effect on nylon fabrics has been reported. This type of fabric has potential application in the field of protective clothing.