Enhancing Thermal Conductivity And Fire Resistance Of Polycotton Via Silica And Titanate Xerogel Coatings: A Comparative Study

Abstract Titanate and silicate xerogels have garnered considerable attention in the realm of thermal insulation due to their outstanding attributes, encompassing thermal conductivity and fire resistance. This study focused on pioneering a new multifunctional textile by integrating xerogels—both titanate and silicate—as additives for enhancing polycotton fabric. Microstructural analyses involved SEM observations, while diverse chemical bonds were identified through iTR-IR technique. Evaluation of thermal properties encompassed TGA, DSC, and thermal conductivity measurements. Findings reveal that the treated fabrics exhibit exceptional flame resistance, they do not burn and therefore exhibit good fire resistance compared to untreated polycotton. Additionally, the multifunctional fabric showcases enhanced thermal stability compared to its untreated counterpart. Consequently, the application of titanate and silicate xerogel coatings yields a versatile textile with substantial potential for smart clothing and personal heating applications.