Abstract
Previous studies on nonwovens used for respiratory protective devices (RPDs) were related to equipment intended for short-term use. There is only limited research on the development of biocidal nonwoven fabrics for reusable RPDs that could be used safely in an industrial work environment where there is a risk of microbial growth. Moreover, a new group of biocides with high antimicrobial activity—gemini surfactants, has never been explored for textile’s application in previous studies. The aim of this study was to develop high-efficiency melt-blown nonwovens containing gemini surfactants with time-dependent biocidal activity, and to validate their antimicrobial properties under conditions simulating their use at a plant biomass-processing unit. A set of porous biocidal structures (SPBS) was prepared and applied to the melt-blown polypropylene (PP) nonwovens. The biocidal properties of the structures were triggered by humidity and had different activation rates. Scanning electron microscopy was used to undertake structural studies of the modified PP/SPBS nonwovens. In addition, simulation of plant biomass dust deposition on the nonwovens was performed. The biocidal activity of PP/SPBS nonwovens was evaluated following incubation with Escherichia coli and Aspergillus niger from the American Type Culture Collection, and with Pseudomonas fluorescens and Penicillium chrysogenum isolated from the biomass. PP/SPBS nonwovens exhibited antimicrobial activity to varying levels. Higher antimicrobial activity was noted for bacteria (R = 87.85–97.46%) and lower for moulds (R = 80.11–94.53%).
Highlights
Airborne dust is the most common way through which harmful biological agents spread in the work environment
Higher antimicrobial activity was noted for bacteria (R = 87.85–97.46%) and lower for moulds (R = 80.11–94.53%)
Nonwoven filters, which are the basic material used in Respiratory protective devices (RPDs), must have a high capacity to capture fine particles dispersed in the air and be able to provide antimicrobial activity throughout the lifetime of the equipment [1,2,3,4,5]
Summary
Airborne dust is the most common way through which harmful biological agents spread in the work environment. Nonwoven filters, which are the basic material used in RPDs, must have a high capacity to capture fine particles dispersed in the air and be able to provide antimicrobial activity throughout the lifetime of the equipment [1,2,3,4,5]. To achieve these requirements, research has focused on the development of new methods for the functionalization of nonwovens, related to their biocidal activity [6]. Sureshkumar et al used silver nanoparticles to Molecules 2017, 22, 1620; doi:10.3390/molecules22101620 www.mdpi.com/journal/molecules
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