Recent advances in TiO2-functionalized textile surfaces

TiO2 has already established itself as one of the most attractive nanomaterials for the functionalisation of textiles due to its unique structural, physicochemical, optical and electrical properties, nontoxicity and low cost. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in the chemical and physical modification of textile fibres with TiO2 nanoparticles and nano-/microstructures and summarises the most important findings on the application processes and performance of TiO2-modified textile substrates. Photocatalytic self-cleaning, antimicrobial activity, UV protection, hydrophobicity, thermal stability, flame retardancy and electrical conductivity are highlighted as central discussion topics in the review. Insights into the mechanisms for providing functional properties are presented; the influence of various factors on functionality is shown; and the latest strategies for TiO2 surface modification to enhance visible light photocatalytic activity, including multiphase heterojunctions, ion doping, metal doping/loading, coupling with other semiconductors and surface sensitization, are discussed. This paper presents some new ideas for producing TiO2-functionalized textile surfaces and suggests future research perspectives and directions in this research area.