A Phosphorus–Nitrogen–Boron Cooperative Flame Retardant and Antibacterial Reagent for Cotton Fabric

Graphical A flame-retardant APNB with antibacterial properties was prepared by the one-pot method from pentaerythritol, phosphoric acid, boric acid, and dimethyl hydantoin. After 50 washings, the damaged length of the APNB-treated cotton fabric was minimal at 63 mm, the LOI is 33.5, and 100% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli . Antibacterial, flame-retardant textiles are the preferred materials for curtains, carpets, home furnishings, and clothing in public places and have important significance. The phosphorus–nitrogen–boron cooperative effects promote good flame-retardant properties for cotton fabrics, while a halamine structure imparts excellent antibacterial properties. A novel antibacterial, eco-friendly flame-retardant agent was prepared and applied as a permanent antibacterial flame-retardant finishing of cotton fabrics. Cotton fabrics treated with the flame-retardant antibacterial agent display self-extinguishing performance, with an average burned length of approximately 65 mm and an oxygen index of more than 31%. After sodium hypochlorite bleaching activation, the gold-colored Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli reached a logarithmic value of more than 5, indicating outstanding bactericidal performance. The test results of XPS, CCT, and TG-IR show that the flame-retardant mode of action of APBN flame-retardant cotton fiber is mainly condensed-phase flame retardant and supplemented by the gas phase. Based on the comprehensive evaluation of antibacterial, flame retardant, and physical properties, this paper reports a composite antibacterial flame retardant and obtains cotton fabric with good antibacterial and durable flame-retardant properties.