Environmentally friendly low cost approach for nano copper oxide functionalization of cotton designed for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications.

Abstract This work proposes an environmentally low cost route for nano copper oxide functionalization of cotton in order to impart antibacterial and photocatalytic properties for the first time. This method only includes utilization of metal precursor with no additional chemicals such as reducing agent, pH adjusting, solvent and others as well as no use of physical power or high temperature and pressure conditions. Images of FESEM and mapping, EDX analysis, X-ray diffraction, UV–visible spectrum and FTIR analysis were proved the existence of copper oxide nanoparticles on the cotton surface. The prepared samples demonstrated excellent antibacterial performance (100%) against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli bacteria that was adjusted to be low-toxic for human dermal fibroblast. The remarkable photocatalytic properties toward discoloration of methylene blue solution under sunlight irradiation were also originated for the prepared samples. In addition, the prepared samples illustrated a variety of color from light to dark brown due to surface plasmon vibrations of copper oxide nanoparticles. They also pointed out an improvement in tensile strength and crease recovery angle properties. All in all, the introduced approach can be performed as an environmentally friendly and low cost route in order to nano copper oxide functionalization of cellulosic based materials designed for antibacterial and photocatalytic applications. Graphical abstract Image Highlights • Introducing environmentally friendly and low cost approach for nano copper oxide functionalization of cotton fabric. • Copper oxide functionalization of cotton substrate without using hazardous chemicals or external physical power. • Excellent antibacterial performances with no negative influence on human dermal fibroblasts. • Very good photocatalytic performances toward degradation the solution of methylene blue dye under sunlight irradiation. • Creating a variety of color from light to dark brown using copper oxide nanoparticles on cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]