Fabrication of microwave silicified oxidized cellulose nanocrystals (SOCN) from Agro waste for sustainable multifunctional wool fabric coloration

Newly and highly silicified oxidized cellulose nanocrystals (SOCNs) from rice straw were prepared using a very fast and eco-friendly method. SOCN whiskers were prepared in a microwave reactor using ammonium persulfate. The reaction occurred in one step under the optimal conditions (concentration, liquor ratio, temperature, and time), saving time and energy. The isolated SOCN whiskers were used in a novel alternative dyeing technique to color wool fabric that further helps reduce the pollution caused by the textile coloration process (i.e., reducing the percentage of water consumed in the coloration process of wool fabric and wastewater effluent). The SOCNs and dyed wool fabric were fabricated using a range of techniques. Up to 60% less water was used in the coloring process than is necessary for conventional methods. The wool fabric dyed with SOCN whiskers has better color strength and fastness properties than conventional dyeing, as well as improved thermal stability and ultraviolet rays blocking activity without additional processing. [Display omitted] •Novel SOCNs with high content of silica (32.30 %) were extracted from rice straw pulp.•The extraction was done in an eco-friendly, short time and energy-saving manner using APS hydrolysis under MW irradiations.•The isolated SOCN-MW whiskers were utilized in a novel alternative dyeing technique for the coloration of wool fabric.•The new proposed dyeing approach helps in the reduction of pollution caused by conventional textile coloration process.•SOCN-MW dyed wool gained extra properties (e.g. improved thermal stability & UPF) without undergoing additional treatments.