Finishing of Cotton Fabric with Biodegradable Nano Composite using Chitosan and Halloysite

This study explores the finishing of cotton fabric using a biodegradable nanocomposite composed of chitosan and halloysitenanotubes (HNTs) to enhance its functional and mechanical properties while promoting environmental sustainability.Chitosan, a natural polysaccharide with inherent antimicrobial activity, serves as a film-forming matrix, while halloysitenanotubes, a naturally occurring aluminosilicate clay, act as reinforcing fillers and carriers for controlled release of activeagents. The nanocomposite dispersion was prepared by dissolving chitosan in dilute acetic acid, followed byultrasonication-assisted dispersion of HNTs and crosslinking with citric acid. The finishing was applied to pre-treatedcotton fabric via the pad-dry-cure method. Characterization techniques including scanning electron microscopy (SEM),Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and mechanical testing confirmed uniform coating, chemical integration,and enhanced tensile and tear strength of the treated fabric. Functional evaluation demonstrated significant antimicrobialefficacy against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, along with improved water repellence indicated by anincreased contact angle. The finished fabric exhibited increased durability and maintained breathability, highlighting thepotential of chitosan-halloysite nanocomposites as eco-friendly finishing agents. This research contributes to thedevelopment of sustainable textile finishing technologies that reduce environmental impact while delivering multifunctionalperformance, positioning biodegradable nanocomposites as promising candidates for next-generation smart andprotective cotton textiles.