Binder-free multifunctional garments with tunable surface properties for wearable protection

Abstract

The multifunctional fabric for garments is a fabric for making protective garments. The multifunctional fabric includes first, second and third layers. The first layer is an outer layer and is formed from a superhydrophobic polymer, such as polylactic acid, with ultraviolet-reflective nanoparticles embedded therein. The second layer is a middle layer and is formed from a first superhydrophilic polymer with silver nanoparticles embedded therein. The third layer, which is an inner layer, is formed from a second superhydrophilic polymer with silver nanoparticles embedded therein. The second layer is sandwiched between the first and third layers, and each of the first, second and third layers is porous to make the fabric breathable. The first and second superhydrophilic polymers allow for absorption of perspiration and the silver nanoparticles embedded therein provide antimicrobial neutralization of any odors caused by the absorbed perspiration, and further serve to reflect infrared radiation from the external environment.