Treatment of khadi cotton fabric with herbal extracts for developing reusable baby diaper

Abstract

The present work sees the effect of Jasmine and Citronella Oil, Microencapsulated with Chitosan on Khadi Cotton fabric. Four different concentrations of these oils were taken in 100ml Chitosan solution while other variables were kept constant. SEM analysis of the treated samples showed the presence of microencapsulated finish on the fabric. FT-IR Spectroscopy further revealed the chemical transformations that took place during the treatment and curing processes. Analysis of Physical and Functional properties of treated Khadi Cotton Samples showed Non-Irritant and Non-Cytotoxic Reactivity. Breaking Strength of the treated sample reduced while Tearing Strength showed an increase. Crease Recovery Angle of the fabric decreased and Bending Length increased. Repeated washes of treated samples showed good retention of finish. Finally, based on their Water Absorption and Retention Capacity, fibres were optimized for making diaper inserts for a specifically designed Khadi Cotton diaper.