Synthesis of Graphene/Zinc Stannate Nanocomposite on Cotton Fabric to Obtain Multi-Functional Properties

This research has been conducted with the objective of multi-functional finishing on cotton fabric forimproving different properties such as photocatalytic activity, electrical conductivity, UV blocking, andantibacterial. To this end, in situ synthesis of graphene/zinc stannate nanocomposite was carried outand its effect on the cotton properties was investigated. The structure and morphology of the fabricsurface has been examined by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and its chemicalstructure has been elucidated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The electrical conductivityof coated fabrics was improved significantly due to the presence of graphene on the surface of cottonfabrics. The photocatalytic activity of the treated fabrics with graphene/zinc stannate nanocompositewas tested by degradation of methylene blue in aqueous solution under sunlight irradiation, whichdemonstrated excellent photocatalytic efficiency of the nanocomposite. The antibacterial activities of thesamples against two common pathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureushave been also assessed, which suggested that the graphene/zinc stannate nanocomposite can functioneffectively as antibacterial agents. Moreover, the nanocomposite finished cotton fabric showed properUV blocking activity.