Comparative Study of Green Crosslinkers in Polylactic Acid/Nanocellulose/ZnO Nanocomposite Coatings for Multifunctional Polyester Fabrics

ABSTRACT The current investigation examines the integration of green cross‐linkers into polylactic acid (PLA) reinforced with surface‐modified nanocellulose (SMNC) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles to improve textile performance. PLA offers environmental advantages due to its degradability and lightweight nature. However, its use is limited by insufficient strength, absorbency, and durability. Earlier experiments were performed using SMNC to increase compatibility and introduce ZnO nanoparticles for antimicrobial properties, along with ultraviolet (UV) radiation shielding. In this study, bio‐based crosslinkers such as citric acid (CA), gallic acid (GA), tannic acid (TA), and ferulic acid (FA) were utilized to achieve strong interactions between the filler and the polymer. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the effects of crosslinkers on polyester fabrics via the dip pad cure method. The CA‐crosslinked fabric was superior, with improved hydrophobicity (110.2°), reduced air (0.2 cc/s/cm 2 ) and water (431.5 mm/s) permeability, indicating strong barrier properties, improved UV barrier properties with UVA (0.9) and UVB (0.5), and better thermal stability with degradation at 292.2°C. Researchers have developed a crosslinked PLA‐SMNC‐ZnO nanocomposite that has significant potential for use as a coating material for multifunctional purposes.