Atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization of hexamethyldisiloxane for imparting water repellency to cotton fabric

Atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization of hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) was carried out to impart water repellent properties to 100% cotton fabric. The dielectric barrier discharge generated from a mixture of argon and HMDSO was used for the plasma polymerization. The AATCC spray test, contact angle and surface energy measurements have shown good resistance to wetting with water. SEM and FTIR analysis have revealed deposition of plasma polymer and Si containing groups respectively, on the surface of the cotton. The effect of plasma polymerization on the physical properties like air permeability, tensile strength, and water vapour transmission were also studied. The plasma process parameters like treatment time and monomer flow have shown a significant effect on the physical, chemical and morphological properties of the cotton. Ash content of plasma treated cotton samples was calculated and it was found to be higher than the untreated cotton sample. The effect of washing cycles on the water repellent properties of HMDSO plasma polymer were investigated by subjecting it to repeated number of washing cycles.