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Nanoceramic coating enhances UV and weather resistance of TPU-coated fabrics
A novel nanoceramic surface coating based on methyltrimethoxysilane-modified silica and ZnO nanoparticles offers improved weather resistance and reduced UV degradation for TPU-coated nylon fabrics, extending their service life.
Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)-coated nylon fabrics are widely used in applications requiring durability and resistance to harsh environmental conditions. However, prolonged exposure to UV radiation and weathering can compromise their performance. Researchers Pooja Maurya, Neeraj Mandlekar, and Mangala Joshi have developed a nanoceramic surface coating that significantly enhances the weather and UV resistance of TPU-coated fabrics.
The nanoceramic coating was synthesised using methyltrimethoxysilane-modified silica nanoparticles via the sol-gel method, with varying concentrations of ZnO nanoparticles added to the silica sol. Comprehensive characterisation techniques, including X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, confirmed the integrity of the coating and its morphological properties.
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Improved barrier and optical properties
The coated fabric exhibited a reduction in helium gas transmittance rate (GTR) from 2.16 to 1.1 L/m²/day, indicating improved barrier properties. Even after 30 days of natural weathering, the GTR values of the coated samples remained significantly lower compared to uncoated samples. Additionally, the yellowness index of the coated fabric was reduced from 3.498 to 0.2, demonstrating excellent UV protection and minimal degradation of optical properties.
Morphological analysis revealed that the nanoceramic coating maintained the integrity of the fabric’s surface, with minimal degradation after exposure to weathering. These results highlight the coating’s potential to extend the service life of TPU-coated fabrics in applications requiring enhanced durability.
Source: Maurya, P., Mandlekar, N. & Joshi, M., Nanoceramic surface coating on thermoplastic polyurethane-coated fabric for enhanced UV and weather resistance. J. Coat. Technol. Res. 23, 297–312 (2026).
