Surface and Adhesion Properties of a Softener Containing Fragrances Microencapsulated with Poly (Methyl Methacrylate) on Cotton, Polyester, and a Mixture of Cotton and Polyester Fabrics

The distribution and adhesion of microcapsules on fabric surfaces are crucial factors for the production of long-lasting fragrance textiles. The objective of this research was to study the adhesion property of a softener containing microencapsulated fragrances on fabrics. Pink fruity fragrance (PF), and white floral fragrance (WF) were encapsulated with poly (methyl methacrylate) or PMMA, using the micro-suspension photopolymerization method, to form PF-PMMA, and WF-PMMA microcapsules, respectively. The particle sizes and zeta potential of the capsules were determined. The PF-PMMA and WF-PMMA were added to the fabric softener before being applied to three types of fabrics, cotton, TK (polyester), and TC (a mixture of cotton and TK). Surface morphologies of the fabrics treated with the softener were studied by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Interactions between the microcapsules and the fabrics were studied using a contract angle measurement device, Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, and Raman microscope. The average size of PF-PMMA was 484.8 ± 4.0 nm, smaller than that of WF-PMMA (664.6 ± 2.9 nm). Cotton was found to be hydrophilic with a rough surface due to cellulose fibers, while TK surface was smooth and hydrophobic. The different fiber structures and surface properties of the fabrics gave rise to different adhesion behavior, evidenced by the contract angle and Raman microscopic data. After 60 days of storage, the microencapsulated fragrances were found to remain on the cotton surfaces, but that on the TC and the TK surfaces disappeared. The results illustrated the interaction between the fabric surface and the microcapsules encapsulated with fragrances, which affected their adhesion. The knowledge obtained can be applied to the development of household products with long-lasting fragrances.