Comparison of the effects of nanoparticles used in antibacterial textiles

The third generation of regenerated cellulose fibers, Lyocell, known as TencelTM commercial name is a preferred fiber type in textile industry due to the eco-friendly production methods, mechanical properties, soft handle and comfort properties in use. However, the use of TencelTM fibers in antibacterial textile surfaces has not become widespread yet. Antibacterial textile surfaces can be formed by various methods. Among these methods, sol-gel method has come forward compared to other methods in the application of nanoparticles and in the production of thin film coatings. By sol-gel method, multifunctional, smart and high-performance textile materials can be developed. In this study, the coatings prepared by sol-gel method with silver nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles with small and large sized and their nanocomposite structures were applied to TencelTM fabrics. Following, the antibacterial activity, UV protection factor and physical properties of the TencelTM fabrics were determined. In addition, EDX, SEM and FTIR characterization analyzes were performed on the samples. As a result of the study, antibacterial activity was seen to be high and durable in all nanoparticle doped applications made to TencelTM fabrics. UV protection property showed an increase especially in the zinc oxide nanoparticle doped applications. Moreover, significant changes in the physical properties were observed. All results of the study were comparatively discussed by considering the applied coatings and characterization analyses.