Embedding aromatherapy essential oils into textile fabric using β-Cyclodextrin inclusion compound

Abstract

β- Cyclodextrin inclusion compounds have been attached to the 100% cotton and 50:50 cotton/polyester fabrics using sol-gel, prepared from 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane and tetraethoxy orthosilicate. Aromatherapy essential oils, having eucalyptus, lavender and lemon fragrances, have been applied on to the treated fabrics by a selected application method. The durability of these fragrances on fabrics has been rated by four judges for six weeks, and up to six washings. The judges rated the fragrance intensity once a week during this period. The scent ratings are found to decrease over six weeks and six washing; however, the fabrics continued to have a decreasing fragrance after six weeks. Fabric abrasion resistance, thermal resistivity and moisture vapor resistivity do not alter significantly; however, an increase in the tensile strength of the polyester/cotton blend fabric is observed after the application of the finish.