Abstract
In this study, antimicrobial and electromagnetic shielding properties of metal composite single jersey fabrics were investigated. For this purpose, stainless steel wire, copper wire, and metalized silver polyamide filament were commingled with textured polyester. The composite yarns were knitted to single jersey fabrics. Electromagnetic shielding effectiveness of samples was measured according to free space test method between 0.8 and 5.2 GHz frequency range. In addition, antibacterial and antifungal activity tests were performed for the overall technical characterization of composite fabrics. The effects of metal type, filament form on electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, and antimicrobial properties were examined. All composite fabrics showed electromagnetic shielding properties at different levels up to 35 dB in vertical direction. Fabrics including metalized multifilament yarn exhibit higher electromagnetic shielding effectiveness in both vertical and horizontal directions. In addition, antibacterial activity level of metalized silver polyamide and copper composite fabrics reached up to 99% against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus. Furthermore, Aspergillus niger could not grow on these composite fabrics.
Highlights
Electrical and electronic devices are used almost in all areas of daily life
The purpose of this study is to determine the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE) and antimicrobial ability of single jersey knitted fabrics produced from the metal composite– commingled yarn
Textured polyester knitted fabrics were tested as control samples
Summary
Various devices, such as modems, computers, mobile phones, radio, microwave ovens, and alternating current (AC) motors, emit electromagnetic waves. Due to its extensive radiations, both people and the devices are often exposed to electromagnetic waves emitted at various polarizations. Electromagnetic waves at different frequencies may cause some adverse effects such as electrical malfunctions, ignite flammable or other hazardous atmospheres, and even it may have a direct effect on human tissue. There are increasing scientific evidences linked to negative effects of human health caused by exposure to electromagnetic waves. It is stated that the electromagnetic radiation is closely related to serious health problems such as leukemia, brain tumors, Alzheimer’s disease, allergies, stress, sleep problems, and depression.[1,2] The electromagnetic spectrum contains an array of electromagnetic waves, increasing in frequency, from extremely low frequency to high frequency waves such as X-rays and gamma rays.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
