Preparation and Properties of Antibacterial and Liquid-Repellent Flash-Spun/Mugwort Viscose Composite Materials

Abstract

This study used waterborne polyurethane (WPU) as an adhesive and employed a spraying process to laminate two types of flash-spun nonwoven fabrics (high barrier properties) with a viscose nonwoven fabric (natural antibacterial properties). By optimizing the adhesive solid content and proportion amount, a balance was achieved between thermal–moisture comfort and interlayer peel strength. Following comprehensive evaluation, an adhesive solid content of 25 wt% and an adhesive proportion of 12 wt% were selected as the final process. Under identical conditions, the flash-spun spunlace/mugwort viscose composite outperformed the flash-spun hot-rolled/mugwort viscose composite, and was therefore further finished to be hydrophobic and oleophobic. After finishing, the treated material exhibited antibacterial rates greater than 90% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, with water and oil contact angles ≥ 140°, combining excellent antimicrobial and dual hydrophobic/oleophobic properties. This work provides a feasible approach for developing multifunctional composite materials with comfort, antibacterial activity, and liquid-repellent properties, showing potential for medical protective textile applications.