Production of antimicrobial, natural, and reusable material for stitching eco-friendly, extra-protective face masks

Abstract

PurposeThe COVID-19 pandemic has popularized wearing face masks for personal protection. However, the protection afforded by a mask is decreased if an individual accidently touches the outer surface of the mask and then touches other parts of their face. To overcome this problem, antimicrobial masks have become commercially available. However, many are disposable and/or made from synthetic antimicrobial agents which have a negative impact on the environment. The purpose of this study was to create material for stitching antimicrobial masks that are reusable and natural.Design/methodology/approachThe authors developed natural antimicrobial finishes from Azadirachata indica, Butea monosperma and Litchi chinensis leaves. The authors used biodegradable polyurethane binder and pad-dry-cure method to apply them on 100% cotton fabric. The authors used Fourier-transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to confirm the application and ASTM E2149 to assess the efficacy and wash-resistance of the finish.FindingsFabric treated with leaves of A. indica, B. monosperma and L. chinensis showed 80%, 100 and 100% antimicrobial activity, respectively. All fabrics were washed 25 times in home laundry cycles and maintained 100% of their antimicrobial effect.Originality/valueThese findings highlight that B. monosperma and L. chinensis finishes on cotton fabric can be a used as a material for stitching antimicrobial, natural and reusable masks that provide more protection than traditional masks but do not pose the environmental concerns of disposable masks or synthetic finishes. This study can be furthered by performing more laundry cycles to determine if the finishes remain 100% effective beyond 25 cycles.