In Situ Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles Using Soy Protein Isolate for Sustainable and Multifunctional Finishing of Hemp Fabrics
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This study presents an environmentally sustainable finishing approach for hemp fabrics by combining soy protein isolate (SPI) pretreatment with an in situ infrared (IR)-assisted synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). IR heating was employed to reduce energy consumption while promoting efficient nanoparticle formation compared to conventional thermal processing, while SPI acted as a bio-based stabilizer to enable uniform ZnO NP distribution on the fabric surface. Transmission electron microscopy revealed predominantly spherical to polyhedral ZnO NPs with minimal agglomeration, and X-ray diffraction confirmed their characteristic wurtzite crystalline structure. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping further verified the homogeneous deposition of ZnO NPs on hemp fibers. The treated fabrics exhibited multifunctional performance, showing significantly enhanced ultraviolet (UV) protection with a UV protection factor (UPF) of 50+ compared with untreated hemp. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was confirmed by the AATCC TM147 test, while a quantitative AATCC TM100 assessment demonstrated an excellent antibacterial efficiency of 99.99% bacterial reduction against S. aureus. Additionally, the incorporation of 2 wt% SPI significantly improved fabric hydrophilicity and wettability. Overall, this work demonstrates a green and effective strategy for producing antibacterial and UV-protective hemp textiles.
Source: Polymers
Institution: Thammasat University
Language: English
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,258
Funder: Thammasat University
OpenAlex ID: W7117695219