Novel high-efficiency nano metal oxide based on phosphorus as smart flame retardants with multiple reactive for sustainable cotton-polyester fabrics.

Textile materials are extensively used due to their advantageous properties; however, their inherent flammability presents significant safety risks, particularly in residential and historical settings. To mitigate these risks, the integration of flame-retardant agents into textile fabrics is essential for enhancing fire resistance and advancing sustainable development. In this study, cotton-polyester fabrics were treated with a flame-retardant composite containing nano graphene oxide (NGO), sodium hypophosphite dihydrate (SHFDH), and lignin (L). The flame-retardant properties were evaluated using the limited oxygen index (LOI) test, with treated fabrics achieving a notable LOI value of 33 %, compared to 17 % for the untreated control. Thermal stability and surface morphology were analyzed using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The treated fabrics also achieved a V0 rating in the UL 94 vertical flame test, whereas untreated fabrics exhibited a burning rate of 110 mm/min. Antibacterial performance was significantly enhanced, with the treated fabrics showing a 15 mm inhibition zone, compared to no inhibition observed in untreated samples. Moreover, toxic gas emissions during combustion including CO, CO₂, SO₂, NOx, and NO were reduced by 61 %, 50 %, 54 %, 60 %, and 66 %, respectively. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of incorporating green flame-retardant chemicals in significantly improving the thermal stability, flame resistance, and antibacterial properties of fabrics, contributing to both safety and sustainability.