Incorporation and performance of molecular polyoxometalates in fibrous substrates

Combining unique fiber morphologies with self-decontamination technologies can enhance toxin degradation on textile substrates. Co-continuous electrospinning was used to fabricate nanofibrous cellulose acetate membranes with unique, grooved fiber morphology due to the selective dissolution of polyethylene oxide. The BET surface area of these grooved fibers was compared to that of like non-grooved fibers. A self-decontaminating polyoxometalate (POM) (H₅PV₂Mo₁₀O₄₀) was synthesized, characterized, and used to functionalize both the grooved and non-grooved fibers. The POM-treated substrates were exposed to methyl parathion, a simulant of the chemical warfare agent (CWA) VX for 24 hours. The degradation of methyl parathion was measured and related to the substrate properties and morphology. This work contributes to the use of novel fiber morphologies in breathable chemical protective apparel to achieve better CWA decontamination and comfort.