New route to making antimicrobial textiles

Healthcare |

Abstract

Covalently cross-linked polymers can be used to create permanent, non-leaching antimicrobial surfaces that kill bacteria, yeasts, moulds and pathogens commonly found in healthcare environments. The simple, inexpensive and scalable chemistry can be applied to fibres, fabrics, filters and plastics in the manufacture of finished products, such as shoes and textiles, and remains fully active even in harsh conditions, including multiple hot water laundry cycles

Jason Locklin (centre) with his project team – (left) Vikram Dhende, graduate student, and (right) Ian Hardin, a professor in the College of Family and Consumer Sciences

In the US, a researcher and his team from the University of Georgia have invented a technology that can inexpensively render items such as medical linens and clothing germ-free

The simple and inexpensive antimicrobial technology works on natural and synthetic materials. The technology can be applied during the manufacturing process or after, and it does not come out in the wash. Unlike with other antimicrobial technologies, repeated applications are not necessary to maintain effectiveness, according to Jason Locklin, the inventor, who is an assistant professor of chemistry in the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences and on the Faculty of Engineering.

The spread of pathogens on textiles and plastics is a growing concern, especially in healthcare facilities, which are ideal environments for the proliferation and spread of very harmful micro-organisms.

The antimicrobial treatment invented by Locklin, which is available for licensing from the University of Georgia Research Foundation (UGARF), effectively kills a wide spectrum of bacteria, yeasts and moulds that can cause disease, break down fabrics, create stains and produce odours.

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• University of Georgia