Simultaneous <em>in situ</em> synthesis of nanosilver and dyeing of polyamide 6 fabric

Abstract

In this research, <em>in situ</em> synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) has been established in an aqueous solution along with the dyeing of polyamide 6 fabric through a simple chemical reduction method by using silver nitrate (AgNO₃), stannous chloride (SnCl₂) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB). SnCl₂is used as a reducing agent in synthesis of Ag NPs and also as mordant in the dyeing of polyamide 6 fabric. The formation and distribution of Ag NPs on surface of the fabric are characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X-ray. The SEM images indicate the covering of fabric surface with Ag NPs. Loading of Ag NPs on the fabric surface leads to higher color strength and change in colour. The presence of stannous and silver ions also leads to change in the reflectance behaviour of the dyed fabrics. CTAB has antibacterial properties and shows stabilizing effects in synthesis of Ag NPs, which further shows synergistic effect in antibacterial activities of Ag NPs loaded fabrics.