Abstract: Nano-silica sol was prepared by using tetraethyl orthosilicate(TEOS) as silicon source and ammonia as catalyst, and then applicated in hydrophobic finishing of cotton/linen fabric. The hydrophobicity of the treated fabric was tested. The results showed that the loading rate of nano-silica tends to be stable after the fabric was padded twice, and the contact angle reached 137.16° after being padded 4 times. The SEM showed the fabric surface became rougher which could improve its hydrophobicity.

Key words: SiO₂; hydrosol; hydrophobicity; cotton/linen fabric