Synthesis and properties of photochromic waterborne polyurethane finishing agent system

The commercial photochromic materials (MC) and waterborne polyurethane were finished on a type of photochromic and environment-friendly waterborne polyurethane (WPU) finishing agent by traditional synthetic process. The finishing agents were characterized by laser particle size measuring instrument, scanning electron microscope (SEM), color difference machine and contact angle apparatus. The results showed that the color-change effect of photochromic waterborne polyurethane (MC-WPU) finishing agent is remarkable. After coating finishing, the fabric surface is uniform and smooth with breathable tiny pores, and similar to the rough surface of lotus leaves. The total color difference and contact angle were increasing gradually and reached a maximum value at 1.6 percent with the increasing content of MC powder. The test results showed that MC-WPU has good photosensitive and hydrophobic properties.