Surface chemistry and physics in textile surface functionalization

Textile surface functionalization is a dynamic and rapidly advancing discipline that combines the principles of functional materials, surface chemistry, and surface physics to improve fabric performance, durability, and responsiveness. This interdisciplinary approach allows for the creation of sophisticated textiles with customized features such as antimicrobial properties, UV protection, electrical conductivity, water repellency, and responsiveness to external stimuli. Various functional agents, including nanoparticles, conductive polymers, and phase-change materials, are applied to textile surfaces via methods such as coating, grafting, and in situ synthesis. Surface chemistry plays a pivotal role by promoting strong interfacial bonding and maintaining the durability of functional layers via covalent bonds, electrostatic interactions, and targeted surface functionalization. Concurrently, surface physics influences the textiles’ structural, mechanical, and optical properties, affecting aspects such as wettability, surface energy, texture, and adhesion. This chapter presents a general overview of functional materials, surface chemistry, and physics in textile surfaces.