A Phosphorus–Nitrogen–Boron Cooperative Flame Retardant and Antibacterial Reagent for Cotton Fabric

Abstract Antibacterial, flame‐retardant textiles are the preferred materials for curtains, carpets, home furnishings, and clothing in public places and have important significance. The phosphorus–nitrogen–boron cooperative effects promote good flame‐retardant properties for cotton fabrics, while a halamine structure imparts excellent antibacterial properties. A novel antibacterial, eco‐friendly flame‐retardant agent was prepared and applied as a permanent antibacterial flame‐retardant finishing of cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics treated with the flame‐retardant antibacterial agent display self‐extinguishing performance, with an average burned length of approximately 65 mm and an oxygen index of more than 31%. After sodium hypochlorite bleaching activation, the gold‐colored Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli reached a logarithmic value of more than 5, indicating outstanding bactericidal performance. The test results of XPS, CCT, and TG‐IR show that the flame‐retardant mode of action of APBN flame‐retardant cotton fiber is mainly condensed‐phase flame retardant and supplemented by the gas phase. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of antibacterial, flame retardant, and physical properties, this paper reports a composite antibacterial flame retardant and obtains cotton fabric with good antibacterial and durable flame‐retardant properties.