Abstract:

The protection provided by clothing against ultraviolet (UV) radiation has been the subject of considerable recent research. However, there is a lack of information concerned with the effect of weave structures and zinc oxide nanoparticles on these properties. A series of cotton fabrics differing in weave structure was produced and treated with zinc oxide nanoparticles. These fabrics were spectrophotometrically assessed and the UV protection factor calculated. It was found that while there was no significant difference in the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) in untreated samples, in samples treated with zinc oxide nanoparticles an increase was noticed in satin and granite weaves. There is no relationship between weave parameters and the UPF. Also between porosity and the UPF, no relationship was noticed. Thus the present study provides design guidelines for clothing manufacturers.