Multifunctional coatings crafted via layer-by-layer spraying method

In this study, a continuous layer-by-layer (LBL) spraying technique was proposed for fabricating multifunctional coatings on cotton fabrics and leather surfaces, separately. This coating could be crafted simply by depositing polyacrylate emulsion, ethanol solution of fragrance, SiO2 dispersion and chitosan solution on substrates via spraying approach. In this designed coating, polyacrylate emulsion was used in the base coat, SiO2 particles in the middle layer served as a reinforcing agent. Chitosan was employed as the topcoat, thus giving effective antibacterial action, while vanillin layer was covered by SiO2 layer and chitosan layer which set double barriers for vanillin diffusion. The coated fabrics and leather samples both exhibited obvious long-term antibacterial performance and sustained fragrance release behaviors, as well as good wear-resistance. All the results suggest that this LBL spraying method hold much promise in designing of multifunctional coatings for industrial use due to its simple operation and versatility.