Application of cyclodextrins in textiles

Abstract

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides obtained by enzymatic degradation of starch. The macrocyclic cyclodextrins were discovered in 1891, and the structures were elucidated in the mid-1930s. Their industrial significance become obvious in the 1970s, now thousands of tons of the three cyclodextrins (α, β-, and γ-CD) and of their chemical derivatives and inclusion complexes are produced industrially. The outer surface of these doughnut-shaped molecules is hydrophilic, but they possess an axial open cavity, which is of hydrophobic character and capable of including other apolar molecules in case of geometric compatibility. This is the essence of molecular encapsulation by inclusion complex formation. In the last few years, the new direction in textile research is the functionalisation of textile systems. It is believed that β -cyclodextrin play a very important role in these new developments. β -cyclodextrin can act as a host for various guest molecules. This enables the development of fabrics that release chemical compounds such as fragrances and antimicrobial agents, waste water treatment. It is believed that there are many possibilities for the development of new textile products with advanced properties based on β -cyclodextrin.