In situ synthesis of green AgNPs on ramie fabric with functional and catalytic properties

The use of natural biopolymers for the green and safe synthesis of silver (Ag) nanoparticles (AgNPs) on textiles is a novel and interesting approach. This study investigated the use of the natural biopolymer sodium (Na) alginate (Na-Alg) as a reducing and stabilising agent for the in situ synthesis of AgNPs on ramie fabrics. The morphology, thermal stability and chemical structure of the fabrics were characterised by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The mechanical properties and colorimetric values of the treated fabrics were also measured. The catalytic performance of ramie fabrics incorporated with AgNPs was assessed using the reduction of 4-nitrophenol in the presence of sodium borohydride (NaBH4) as a model reaction. Treatment with AgNPs substantially improved the ultraviolet-blocking ability of the fabric and resulted in ramie fabric with a remarkable antibacterial activity.