Multifunctional jute fabrics obtained by different chemical modifications

Abstract: The aim of the present research is first to reduce the jute fabric non-cellulosic components by using different chemical modifications (i.e. alkali and oxidative) and then to analyze their influence on the jute fabric properties. For that purpose, the jute fabrics were characterized in terms of their chemical composition, structural parameters, mechanical properties, volume electrical resistivity, antibacterial activity and biosorption of Zn2+. Moreover, the jute fabrics were functionalized by incorporation of silver ions and the fabrics were evaluated as sorption material with a further perspective of reuse. After the alkali modifications, the hemicelluloses were selectively removed and the fabric structural parameters increased. Alkali modifications under mild conditions (1% NaOH for 30 min and 5% NaOH for 5 min) lead to a decrease, while the most intensive alkali modification (17.5% NaOH for 30 min) contributed to an increase in the volume electrical resistivity and fabric maximum force compared to unmodified fabric. A relationship between the jute fabric chemical composition, crystallinity index, conversion of cellulose I to cellulose II, fabric structural parameters and volume electrical resistivity was found. The oxidations lead to selective lignin removal, which consequently causes a decrease in the volume electrical resistivity and fabric maximum force. Ag+ incorporated in the selected samples decreased their electrical resistivity even further. Following the increased focus on the concept of circular economy and sustainable development goals, the biosorption potential of damaged and waste jute fabrics for Zn2+ was investigated. Jute fabrics with incorporated Ag+ and those obtained after the biosorption of Zn2+ provided maximum bacterial reduction (99.99%) for Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The chemically modified jute fabrics can be utilized as carpet backing and protective clothing in environments sensitive to electrical discharges, but also as filters for water disinfection and biosorbents for Zn2+.Graphic abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]