Electrostatic Interaction-Induced Assembly of Colloidal Photonic Crystals on Polyester Yarns Applied for Structurally Colored Fabrics with High Breathability and Colorfastness

Structurally colored technology based on photonic crystals (PCs) shows significant potential for applications in ecological coloration, fashion textiles, and smart textiles. However, structurally colored fabrics with photonic crystals (SCFa-PCs) prepared by the coating method usually have poor air permeability. Preparing structurally colored yarns with photonic crystals (SCY-PCs) and subsequently weaving them into fabrics is an effective approach to addressing air-permeability limitations. Nevertheless, constructing PC structures with both high structural stability and high color saturation on polyester yarns remains a significant hurdle due to their complex surface morphology and hydrophobicity. Herein, ionic surfactants are employed as surface-modifying agents to enhance the affinity of polyester yarns for polystyrene @ poly(methyl acrylate-butyl acrylate) [PS@P(MMA-BA)] colloid nanosphere assembly liquid, enhancing the assembly efficiency and uniformity of PS@P(MMA-BA) PCs. The reflection curve of the prepared SCY-PCs has a narrow and high peak, which proves the high brightness and high saturation of the structural color. In the fabricated SCY-PCs, due to the self-adhesive property of PS@P(MMA-BA) nanospheres, the PC structure on the fiber surface possesses excellent structural stability under various conditions such as rubbing and washing. Subsequent textile processing, including weaving and embroidery, produces structurally colored fabrics with high breathability, outstanding color fastness, and high color saturation. The visible color of the SCY-PCs can be precisely controlled over the spectral range of 400–700 nm by adjusting the diameter of the nanospheres. This innovative approach addresses the air-permeability limitations of bionic SCFa-PCs and reveals promising capability for the broader application of structurally colored technologies in textile manufacturing.