Heat-regulating polylactic acid/silica aerogel composite fabric: Preparation and characterization

Abstract

Heat regulation of the human body through textile fabrics is of great interest to the apparel industry. Herein, blends of environmentally friendly materials, including modified polylactic acid (MPLA) (polylactic acid (PLA) + acrylic acid (AA)-grafted PLA (PLA-g-AA) mixed complex) and silica aerogel (SA) composite, were used to make textiles. The tensile, thermal, heat/cold resistance and surface wettability of the novel composites were characterized. MPLA and SA improved the properties of these composites. The MPLA/SA textiles exhibited more favorable mechanical properties than the PLA/SA textiles; this effect was due to better compatibility between the MPLA and SA. Polylactic acid typically exhibits high hydrophilicity and poor thermal conductivity. Incorporating SA as a filler in the processed yarn significantly enhanced the functional performance of the PLA composite textiles. The addition of SA enhanced hydrophobicity and decreased thermal conductivity, which enabled better temperature regulation. The MPLA/SA textiles displayed superior tensile strength, insulation property, temperature adjustment, water resistance, and washing durability. Moreover, the developed MPLA/SA fabric is suitable for mass production and use in various types of textile goods.