Self-cleaning textiles
On the pilot equipment for plasma chemical treatment of rolled materials at Gomel University of Transport was held plasma treatment of samples of knitted fabrics of different raw compositions and fabric of 100% polyester. Metallic copper nanoparticles encapsulated in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) were a characteristic feature used in finishing technologies.Evaluation of water-repellent properties of knitted fabric samples from shaped yarns (raw material composition of PE/wool/ cotton 77/3/30) and lining fabric made of 100% PE was performed by absorption of water drops on material surface at the laboratory RL-MESO RUE "Research Center of Light Industry". Both samples shown an increase of hydrophobicity compared to the starting material. Water droplets did not spread on the material and rolled down. For a long observation time (30 min) decrease the size of water droplets deposited on the material was seen.
The evaluation of antimicrobial properties of plasma-treated samples performed at the Research Institute of Epidemiology and Microbiology showed antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of microorganisms. Raw materials samples chosen as a control group, showed no antimicrobial activity. It was found that using the suspension method with 3-18 h exposure, plasma-treated samples did not show antimicrobial and antifungal activity to all tested strains. Based on this data it can be concluded that the active substance does not migrate, does not form a zone of inhibition and does not let microorganisms adapt. Since active substance remains on the material, it does not overcome the skin barrier, has no effect on skin microflora, therefore does not cause irritation. Thus, the data of microbiological and laboratory studies indicate the possibility of production of textile materials using nanotechnology and plasma treatment to create a product that combines the ability to "self-clean" and to have barrier properties against microorganisms.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of the technology of silver nanoparticles deposition by plasma process was carried out at Gomel State University on their existing pilot equipment. Formation of the antibacterial coating occurred from active gas phase generated by the electron-beam source dispersion of the mixture of polymer and/or silver-containing compound in vacuum. Antibacterial coatings on the surface of medical bandage materials were formed in the presence of the matrix, and without it. As matrix in forming of the composite antimicrobial coating polymers were used: polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyethylene glycol (PEG-115), polyamide (PA-6), polyurethane (PU Desmopan 385). As antibacterial material were used nitrate and silver oxide (AgNO3, Ag2O) of analytical grade. As substrate - medical bandage material - was used medical gauze created at JSC "BPHO."
Based on the results of the research it can be concluded that the modified samples of medical bandage materials on the studied sanitary-chemical, organoleptic and toxicological indicators meet the requirements of the current technical regulations (SanPin 1.1.12-30-2006 Instruction 1.1.10-12-41-2006). In the course of the research the optimal effective thickness of the coating and the optimal antibacterial substance used in the formation of the coating have been found. The developed technology can be recommended for the production of medical bandage materials with biocidal properties.
Contacts:
RUE "Research Center of Light Industry"
Natalia A. Gorodnicheva
Tel .: +375 017 2264675
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