Encapsulation of n-docosane with melamine formaldehyde shell, silver reduction by in situ polymerization and fabric application

Purpose This study aims to encapsulate paraffin-based n-docosane, classified as an organic phase change material (PCM), within a nanoscale melamine/formaldehyde shell via the in situ polymerization method to provide thermal comfort of the 100% combed single jersey fabric against air changes and to develop potential antimicrobial microcapsules due to the antimicrobial properties of silver. Design/methodology/approach PCMs with melamine-formaldehyde shells were produced using the in situ polymerization technique, and characterized by SEM, DSC and FTIR analyses. In this study, AgNO3 was used with melamine/formaldehyde shell material to impart antibacterial properties to the capsules. In addition, polyvinyl alcohol was used as a protective agent to prevent the aggregation of silver nanoparticles. The capsules were then applied to 100% combed single jersey fabric using the impregnation method. Findings Characterization of the synthesized capsules was performed using SEM, DSC and FTIR analyses. Capsule sizes ranged from 259.5 nm to 1.772 µm. Crystallization enthalpy values were recorded as −232.39 J/g and −35.52 J/g, while melting enthalpy values were observed at 273.81 J/g and 35.70 J/g. Functional group analysis confirmed successful encapsulation. Research limitations/implications The padding system was used with the impregnation method of the synthesized capsules, which is widely used in the textile field, but since the capsules cannot maintain their stability, exhaust process, spraying, etc. in textile applications methods can be applied. Practical implications MF shell and n-docosane exhibit high melting points in geotextile applications under these conditions. It can be used in the food packaging industry due to its high heat capacity and melting point. N-docosane is a paraffinic material with 22 carbon atoms and 249 kJ/kg latent heat storage, which reaches the melting temperature of 44 °C. The type and properties of the shell materials in which PCMs are encapsulated can cause changes in the melting point and melting enthalpy of the phase-change materials in the core. Social implications It can be used in the food packaging industry due to its high heat capacity and melting point. Originality/value This study successfully synthesized silver-reduced melamine formaldehyde shelled with n-docosane PCM for the first time. The investigation included evaluating the role of pH in shell formation and demonstrating novelty in the development of multifunctional PCM capsules that increase thermal comfort and provide antibacterial properties to jersey fabric.