Russia invents new fabrics, antibacterial fabrics, antifungal

Russia has invented a new technology for the treatment of fabrics that has antibacterial and antifungal properties. First, the new product will be suitable for patients with reduced immunity, those who participate in multi-day hiking, and military personnel.

Silver nanoparticles, a powerful substance that kills pathogens and fungi, give garment protection. In order to stabilize the nanoparticles in the fabric, scientists have proposed the use of polymers isolated from flax and hemp extracts.

Andre Moreganov, director of the Laboratory of Chemical and Modified Fiber Materials Technology, Institute of Solution Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, pointed out: "The synthesis of nanoparticles and their application in textile materials is carried out in solution. The solution is required to add a low concentration (about 0.02 g/L) of silver salt (AgNO3) and a positively charged polymer to the water. At the same time, the fourth component acts as a special reducing agent in the fabric modification process. It plays an important role. It interacts with the salt to release the silver nanoparticles that are firmly adsorbed in the polymer structure."

The solution obtained by the scientist soaks the socks. This process is carried out in a centrifuge-equipped machine similar to a washing machine. Dry the socks in the final stage.

The application of this solution is not limited to the production of socks, it can also be used in the future to make other types of clothing, such as underwear and gloves, as well as for the production of various medical dressings.

Andre Moreganov said: "This technology is very simple, companies do not have to buy expensive equipment. The impregnating agent itself is also available. According to our calculations, the cost of the solution required to process one kilogram of clothing will not exceed 40 rubles. The cost of producing socks and underwear with these materials is only 15% more expensive than the standard."

He said that this fabric treatment technology is much more economical than previously known methods.

The characteristics of the new fabric have been independently tested at the Ivanovo State Medical College.

Natalia Demnikova, a researcher at the Laboratory of Chemical and Modified Fiber Materials Technology, Institute of Solution Chemistry, Russian Academy of Sciences, said: "In the course of the experiment, a sample of the substance was placed in a Petri dish containing the pathogen. The results show that the modified fabric not only does not stain the bacteria, but also cleans the surrounding space very clean."

These results indicate that fungal diseases can be cured at an early stage with the aid of antibacterial clothing. However, it can only be confirmed clinically after the production of such clothing.

In addition, the scientists also determined that even with repeated exposure to detergents, the socks retain their useful properties and can withstand more than 20 washes.