A dual-function cotton fabric with thermochromic and thermoregulation properties containing Floran dye-based gelatin/gum Arabic-walled thermochromic microcapsules

Purpose The purpose of this study is to develop fabrics that exhibited thermochromic and thermoregulatory capabilities. Design/methodology/approach A natural, environmentally friendly and biodegradable polymer-based gelatin/Arabic gum-walled microcapsule comprising thermochromic system, produced by the complex coacervation method (CCM), was applied to cotton fabric by pad-dry-cure. The thermochromic and thermoregulatory properties of the fabric were determined through the colour measurement and T-History test, respectively. Furthermore, the air and water vapour permeability, the moisture management, the bending resistance and tear strength properties of the fabric were performed. Findings From the colour measurements and visual photographs results, it was seen that microcapsule-treated fabrics underwent a reversible colour change, from green to colourless, with increasing temperature. Scanning electron microscopy images of the fabrics revealed the presence of numerous microcapsules on the fibre surface, and even after 20 washes, the majority of the microcapsules remained. The air and water vapor permeability test results demonstrated a notable reduction in the permeability values of the fabrics after microcapsule application. Although microcapsule application resulted in a notable enhancement in the bending resistance of the fabrics, it had a relatively minor impact on their tear strength. Originality/value This study presents the development of dual-function cotton fabrics that provide excellent thermochromic and thermal properties through a single application. Furthermore, the utilization of microcapsules with biopolymer-based walls in the fabrication of functional fabrics represents a significant aspect of the study. The microcapsules were produced through a straightforward CCM, thereby enabling the use of natural, environmentally friendly and biodegradable wall materials.