Intrinsically conducting cellulose textiles

Electrically conductive textiles based on polypyrrole thin films deposited on fibre substrates are highly susceptible to oxidation and wear abrasion. Recent research carried out in our laboratories shows that polypyrrole can be embedded in natural and man rnade cellulose-based fibres, such as cotton, Viscose, Cupro and Lyocell, by means of internal polymerisation taking place in the amorphous region of the fibres. In this work, pyrrole was applied by simple finishing process at room temperature from an aqueous solution of the monomer that penetrates into the fibre similarly to a non reactive dye. Subsequent in situ polymerisation caused its permanent insolubility in the intemal fibre structure, leading to good fastness to washing and to light exposure, without significant modification of the mechanical properties of the fibres. To prevent the atmospheric oxidation of the samples, silicon-based coatings wereapplied after polymerisation. This low cost technological application is of particular interest for developing new technical textiles such as antistatic fabrics for work clothing, sportswear and apparel, heating and cooling equipment , etc.