Functionalization of textile fabric with plasma-generated copper oxide nanoparticles
Plasma em gaiola catódica; Nanopartículas de óxido de cobre (CuO); Propriedades antimicrobianas; Sonofotocatálise
The research focuses on creating fabrics with specific functionalities through the incorporation of copper oxide (CuO) nanoparticles using the cathodic cage plasma technique. This method stands out as a sustainable and effective alternative to traditional processes, as it eliminates the need for harsh chemicals and helps reduce water and energy consumption. All-cotton fabrics were used as the base, subjected to different parameters of electric current, exposure time, and controlled gas composition, with the aim of forming thin, homogeneous layers on the material. The obtained samples were analyzed using techniques such as Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FEG-SEM), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, as well as antibacterial efficacy and sonophotocatalysis tests. The data reveal that the presence of CuO confers important multifunctional properties to fabrics, such as antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, as well as a high capacity for degrading organic dyes. These results reinforce the potential use of these materials in medical and environmental applications. The conclusion is that the use of cathodic cage plasma for CuO deposition is a fast, low-cost procedure with the potential for industrial scale and environmental benefits, consolidating its position as a promising technology for the development of advanced textiles.