Self-assembled multilayer of silver nanoparticles on cotton fabric and its flame-retardant property

Multilayer films consisting of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) and polyelectrolyte have been fabricated via layer-by-layer (LbL) self-assembly technique in an effort to improve the flame-retardant property of the cotton fabrics. The number of self-assembly processes was verified by UV-Vis spectrometry. The UV-Vis absorption spectra provided evidence for subsequent growth of multilayer film, exhibiting progressive enhancement of optical absorption. The surface morphology of the coated fabrics was characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The images show that the AgNPs were uniformly dispersed on the cotton fabric surface. The thermal stability and combustibility of the coated cotton fabrics were evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis and vertical flame tests, respectively. The results demonstrate that LbL self-assembly is a useful method for imparting flame-retardant property to cotton fabric.