Researchers Xu Li, Xiangji Liu, Chenghao Yang, and colleagues have developed a durable multifunctional cotton fabric that simultaneously delivers high-level flame retardancy and antibacterial performance using a halogen-free and formaldehyde-free chemistry. The work addresses a key industry challenge: achieving multifunctionality without compromising safety, sustainability, or fabric integrity.
Scientific innovation at a glance
The treatment is based on AMOTP, a novel flame-retardant antibacterial agent synthesised via polymerisation of phosphorus oxychloride and diethylenetriamine, combined with guanidine-based antibacterial groups. Applied through a one-step finishing process, AMOTP integrates both fire protection and antimicrobial functionality directly into the cotton substrate.
Fire performance results
The treated cotton fabric (C3) demonstrated exceptional flame-retardant behaviour:
- Peak Heat Release Rate (PHRR): ↓ 87.98%
- Total Heat Release (THR): ↓ 42.97%
- Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI): 43.4%
After 50 laundering cycles, the LOI remained at a robust 28.5%, indicating strong durability of the flame-retardant system.
Antibacterial effectiveness
The fabric achieved 99.99% antibacterial efficiency against both E. coli and S. aureus. Importantly, wash durability remained high:
- E. coli: 95.87% retained after 50 washes
- S. aureus: 94.29% retained after 50 washes
This performance positions the fabric well for healthcare, protective clothing, and high-risk interior applications.
Practical relevance for the textile industry
Crucially, the AMOTP treatment preserves the original physical properties of cotton, avoiding stiffness, strength loss, or handle degradation—common drawbacks of multifunctional finishes. The research therefore provides a scalable and application-ready pathway for advanced cotton textiles aligned with tightening fire-safety and hygiene regulations.
Industry relevance: knowledge exchange opportunity
As fire-safety requirements and sustainability expectations intensify, such developments are shaping the future of protective materials. These themes will be explored in depth at the EC Conference – Frontiers in Fire Protective Coatings, taking place 13–14 April 2026 in Copenhagen, Denmark, covering bio-based flame retardants, durability testing, next-generation intumescent systems, and digitalised certification frameworks.
