Development and Characterisation of Fish-Scale-Derived Carbon Nanodot Coatings on Cotton Fabric for Enhanced UV Absorption

Abstract

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UVA (315–400 nm) and UVB (280–315 nm), poses significant health risks. The use of textiles with enhanced UV absorption properties can be an effective means of reducing exposure to these harmful rays. This study explores the development of textiles with UV-absorbing properties using carbon nanodots (CNDs) synthesised from fish scales, an eco-friendly material developed from biowaste. Silane was employed as a coupling agent to improve the adhesion of CNDs to cotton fabric. The UV-absorbing efficiency of fabrics treated with varying concentrations of CNDs (0.02–0.5%) was assessed using UV-Visible
spectrophotometry. Durability tests, including domestic and seawater washing (up to 30 cycles), evaluated the coating stability. Results demonstrated significant UV absorption in CND-coated fabrics, with optimal protection observed at 0.5% CND concentration. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed chemical interactions between CNDs and silane, while Scanning Electron
Microscopy (SEM) revealed a uniform coating distribution and stability after washing. The findings indicate that fish-scale-derived CNDs, in combination with silane, offer a promising eco-friendly approach for developing UV-protective textiles, particularly benefiting high-risk groups such as fishermen.