Comparing the effect of Coating polyester Fabric with Silver Nanoparticles (AgNPs) on gymnastics costume Functional Properties

The aim of this study is to use nanotechnology to improve the functional performance of gymnastics costume in order to produce a gymnastics garment capable of helping athletes improve their performance and thus contribute to improving their result, Polyester fabric, which used in traditional gymnastics costume manufacturing were coated with the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to improve its functional properties for achieve the final use requirements. The characterization of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the fabric surface were done by using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and also on fabric surface before and after the treatment. Functional and Physical tests were accomplished. Those tests were weight, thickness, bursting Strength, stiffness, air permeability and water repellency. The properties of polyester fabric treated with the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were compared with untreated polyester fabric. The surface morphology was identified by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). It was notice that, the treated polyester fabrics with silver nanoparticles display the scaly appearance on the surface that made the surface rougher & enhance the water repellency. The water repellent agent forms an oily layer on the silver nanoparticles just like lotus leaves. Here silver nanoparticles act as an epidermal cells and water repellent agent as waxy bumps, which results in superhydrophobicity on the polyester fabrics. From the results of tests conclude that coating polyester fabric with silver nanoparticles has a significant effect on functional and performance properties. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) coating makes a very thin film that is invisible with a naked eye as the texture and look of fabric does not change after treatment. Silver nanoparticles treatment makes fabric long lasting and more durable. After the treatment a gymnastics costume was designed and manufactured with the treatment fabric.