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Thermo‐Fluorescent Bactericidal Quantum Dots Based Smart Multifunctional Textiles via Molecular Surface Engineering and 3D‐Printed Interlocked Architectures

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT Functional textiles integrating optical activity, environmental responsiveness, and structural adaptability are essential for next‐generation wearable systems. Here, we present a versatile strategy for fabricating thermo‐fluorescent, UV‐protective, and antibacterial smart textiles via carbon dot (CD)/polymer nanocomposite coatings. CDs synthesized hydrothermally exhibited strong excitation‐dependent emission (320–460 nm), a fluorescence lifetime of 4.2 ns, and excellent photostability over 30 days. The CDs formed hydrogen‐bonding interactions within a PVA/quaternized chitosan matrix and were deposited onto textiles using dip‐and‐dry and spray methods, followed by hexadecyltrimethoxysilane modification to impart durable hydrophobicity (water contact angle >100°). The coated fabrics maintained fluorescence under repeated mechanical deformation and showed coating‐cycle‐dependent emission. The functional cotton displayed thermo‐responsive fluorescence (5–100°C), with enhanced emission below 37°C and quenching above this temperature. The textiles showed strong antibacterial activity, with inhibition zones of ∼17 mm (E. coli) and ∼19 mm (B. subtilis). The textiles also demonstrated notable antioxidant performance (DPPH EC 50 = 88.6 µg mL − 1 ; ABTS EC 50 = 37.1 µg mL − 1 ) and excellent UV‐blocking, exceeding a 95% relative increment in UVB blocking at the highest coating level. Integration with digital light processing printing enabled mechanically interlocked hybrid architectures without compromising functionality, establishing a multifunctional platform for advanced smart textile applications.

Source: Advanced Healthcare Materials

DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202505618