Development of Sustainable Multifunctional Cotton Fabric Using Bioderived Coumalic Acid via a Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembly Technique without Compromising the Comfort Properties of the Fabric

The rise in mosquito-borne diseases highlights the need for sustainable solutions as conventional synthetic pesticides are effective but pose significant risks to human health and the environment. It emphasizes the urgency of adopting greener alternatives. This study deals with the unique synergy of biomass-derived coumalic acid (CA) and biocompatible branched polyethylenimine (bPEI), orchestrated through a layer-by-layer (L-b-L) self-assembly process into the cotton fabric. The presence of CA/bPEI in the treated fabric was meticulously characterized through different analytical techniques. The functionalized cotton fabric showed outstanding mosquito repellency (>95%) and significant antimicrobial efficiency against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria (>99%), along with very good antioxidant activity (>94%) and excellent UV protection factor (50+). In addition, the physicochemical parameters, such as air permeability, water vapor permeability, fabric stiffness, and breaking strength as well as color value (K/S) demonstrated the high efficacy of the L-b-L coating. Functional properties of the treated cotton fabric remained stable even after 25 home launderings and after one year of storage, establishing its durability. Based on the obtained results, it is conclusive that the L-b-L-coated fabric can be effectively employed as a multifunctional textile substrate to protect human beings from mosquito biting and prevent microbial growth, along with its excellent ability to scavenge free radical and UV protection with zero toxic effect.