Enhancing polyamide fabric performance through green reduction of graphene oxide for superior ultraviolet protection and electrical conductivity

Abstract

In this study, a polyamide warp‐knitted fabric was treated with a graphene oxide (GO) aqueous dispersion using a laboratory‐type Jigger dyeing machine. Subsequently, the GO underwent a chemical reduction process, employing rosehip extract powder as a nature‐based reducing agent. The effect of reduction time (12 and 24 h) was investigated. The study involved an examination of the surface morphology, colour coordinates, and colour difference of both the GO coated and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) coated fabrics. Additionally, the colour fastness against rubbing was assessed. Furthermore, electrical resistivity measurements were conducted on the GO‐coated polyamide‐6,6 fabric both before and after the reduction process. The ultraviolet (UV) transmittance and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of both GO‐coated and reduced fabrics were determined. The study also explored the effect of the washing process on colour properties, electrical resistivity, and UPF. Notably, the lowest electrical surface resistivity and the highest UPF rating were obtained as 1.20 × 102 kΩ/sq and 50+ after the reduction process. Additionally, after the washing process, the electrical surface resistivity increased, while the UPF rating remained 50+, indicating excellent UV protection.