Construction of amorphous photonic crystal coated fabrics with wash resistance and antifouling performance

In recent decades, photonic crystals (PCs) prepared from periodically structured monodispersed nanoparticles in regular lattices have gained significant attention for their potential applications in textiles. Due to their bright color, non-fading properties, and environmental friendliness, PCs have been found to have advantages over traditional dyes. However, a significant challenge remains in the fabrication of PC-coated fabrics with good wash resistance and antifouling properties. In this study, we explore using monodispersed SiO2 and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with low glass transition temperatures to construct PC coatings on fabrics. SiO2 nanoparticles were modified with PDMS to enhance the wash resistance of PC-coated fabrics. By controlling solvent evaporation, the arrangement of SiO2 nanoparticles was adjusted to improve the antifouling properties of the fabrics. The wash resistance and antifouling properties of PC-coated fabrics were systematically studied. In addition, fabrics of various chemical compositions, weaving modes, areal densities, and original colors were used as substrates for PC coatings to further verify the availability of this method. The influence of PC coatings on the fabrics' resilience, softness, smoothness, and permeability was also examined. This work serves as a guide for constructing wash-resistant and antifouling PC-coated fabrics.