Multiwalled-Carbon-Nanotubes (MWCNTs)–GPTMS/Tannic-Acid-Nanocomposite-Coated Cotton Fabric for Sustainable Antibacterial Properties and Electrical Conductivity

We propose a method of crosslinking multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with cotton fabric. 3-Glycidoxypropyltrimethoxy silane (GPTMS) polymer was used for the stabilization and modification of the surfaces of MWCNTs. The presence of tannic acid in the finishing formulation adds a sustainable functionality to the treated surface. The formation of the GPTMS–MWCNTs nanocomposite as well as the MWCNTs–GPTMS tannic-epoxy nanocomposite on the fabric surface was confirmed by Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FTIR). The surface morphology and physical properties were investigated. An assessment of antibacterial activity, UV-protective properties, and electrical conductivity was performed. The post-treatment results of the MWCNTs–GPTMS nanocomposite fabric with tannic acid exhibited superior antibacterial character with the highest inhibition zones for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli (26 mm, 24 mm). On the contrary, the electrical conductivity was negatively impacted. The treatment of cotton fabric with tannic acid showed a great UV-protection-factor estimation of 96.2, which was additionally improved by treatment with MWCNTs 152.1. Cotton fabric treated with cotton/GPTMS/tannic acid/MWCNTs as well as cotton/GPTMS/MWCNTs recorded the highest electrical-conductivity properties. Fabrication of MWCNTs–GPTMS/tannic-acid-nanocomposite-coated cotton fabric for durable antibacterial and UV protection with improved electrical and physical properties was successfully achieved.