Application of Plant Polyphenols in Multifunctional Textiles

This review examines how plant polyphenols enable multifunctional textiles, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes and nanomaterial-based treatments. A literature search (2001–2025) identified 105 peer-reviewed studies across eight functional areas. Abundant in agricultural and industrial byproducts, plant polyphenols act as natural colorants, bio-adhesives, and performance enhancers—providing coloration, antibacterial activity, UV protection, flame retardancy, deodorization, antioxidant capacity, superhydrophobicity, and more. Their catechol and pyrogallol groups bind strongly to natural and synthetic fibers via hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, and metal chelation, ensuring durable, nontoxic functionality. We analyze structure–function links and scalable methods, including pad-dry-cure and metal–phenolic network (MPN) assembly, which were validated against ISO, ASTM, and AATCC standards. Polyphenol-based textiles match or exceed conventional ones in key metrics, with added benefits: full biodegradability, low ecotoxicity, and skin compatibility. Key advances include enzymatic polymerization for wash-stable color, MPN tuning for customizable functions, and using waste-derived polyphenols. However, major challenges remain: narrow color range (mostly yellow, brown, black) and poor wash/UV resistance, leading to rapid fading and loss of antibacterial/UV protection after laundering. Solving these is a top priority for future work. Overall, this review delivers a practical, science-based roadmap for high-performance, sustainable textiles that align with the Sustainable Development Goals and meet real-world needs in healthcare, sportswear, and smart wearables.