Sol-Gel and Layer-by-Layer Coatings for Flame-Retardant Cotton Fabrics: Recent Advances

Abstract

Surface-engineered coatings for the fire protection of cotton are being increasing used thanks to the ease of application of the coatings and their effectiveness in preventing flame propagation and improving resistance to irradiative heat flux exposure. Two main approaches have been extensively investigated, namely sol-gel derived coatings and layer-by-layer assemblies. These approaches are both capable of providing treated fabrics with outstanding flame-retardant features. Notwithstanding, according to the composition of the sol-gel recipes and the type of deposited layers, it is possible to design multifunctional (for example hydrophobic and electrically conductive) treatments. This review aims at discussing recent advances with respect to both strategies, highlighting current limitations, open challenges, and possible advances.