Synthesis and Characterization of Aqueous Curcumin Polyurethane Dispersions Using Isophorone Diisocyanate: Efficiency Evaluation as Textile Finishes.

This research is aimed at synthesizing some novel bio-based ecofriendly finishes for textile applications. A series of curcumin based aqueous polyurethane (PU) dispersions (CUR-WDPU-IPDI) was prepared using polyethylene glycol (PEG), isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) and dimethylolpropanoic acid (DMPA) via conventional pre-polymer process. The dual functionality is incorporated by hindering the polyurethane pre-polymer with isocyanate (-NCO) groups and curcumin was utilized to extend the polymeric chain to achieve the CUR-WDPU-IPDI dispersion. Structural characteristics of the synthesized polymer were investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectrophotometer. The performance of PU dispersions for increasing the color fastness properties (washing, rubbing and perspiration fastness) of plain weave fabrics (poly/cotton, dyed and printed) was studied. Furthermore, the mechanical strength (pilling, tearing and tensile strength) of the said fabric (dyed, printed and white) was also evaluated. Results clearly exhibited that the color fastness properties and mechanical strength of the dyed, printed and white fabrics were improved significantly after treating with the PU finishes. These synthesized curcumin-based water dispersible polyurethanes (CUR-WDPU-IPDI) finishing agents are greener products which are particularly derivatized from bio-resources. Owing to their biocompatibility, copious availability, less noxious, greener methodology and ecofriendly nature, these can be utilized as attractive ecofriendly alternatives for textile applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]