Field Study of Activity of Antimicrobial Polypropylene Textiles

Abstract

In this work, an in situ study is presented of the impact of textile materials used in healthcare facilities on microbial colonization of textile surfaces. The available literature describes antimicrobial active textiles and their effectiveness in laboratory conditions. However, the quantification of the impact on the microbiome of healthcare facilities has not been investigated so far. Polypropylene yarns doped with silver phosphate glass and zinc pyrithione were prepared and used for the production of bed sheets and clothing for healthcare personnel. Subsequently, measurements of airborne particles and viable microorganisms on given textiles were conducted in a private surgery clinic for 3 weeks, comparing the counts of viable microorganisms before and after replacing staff clothing and bedding on examination and the surgical bed with said polypropylene cloth. A significant reduction in airborne particles and viable microorganisms was expected based on previous studies on the use of polypropylene textiles in operating rooms. In this study, a significant reduction in viable airborne fungi and viable microorganisms on monitored textiles was observed by multiple methods. However, the effect on airborne microorganisms seems insignificant in areas with frequent patient traffic. The textile described here represents a new additional way of protecting patients and medical personnel from healthcare-associated infections while using a modification of proven production procedures and commercially usable materials without legislative restrictions.

Waterless Dyeing of Polyamide 6.6

“…PP fibers are widely used in various applications such as rope manufacturing, concrete reinforcement, medical sutures and meshes, hygiene products, home furnishings, automotive interiors, and surgical disposables. They are valued for their strength, durability, biocompatibility, and cost-effectiveness, making them versatile and practical across different industries [ 8 , 9 , 10 ]. Polyethylene (PE) stands out as a fundamental polymer in various industries due to its low density and high tensile strength.…”