Russia has developed a new technique for treating fabrics with antibacterial and antifungal properties.First, the new product will be available to people with weakened immune systems, people on multi-day hikes and military personnel.
Silver nanoparticles (a powerful substance that kills pathogens and fungi) can give clothing protective properties.To stabilize the nanoparticles in the fabric, scientists proposed using polymers isolated from flax and hemp extracts. Director of the Russian academy of sciences institute of solution chemistry of chemical technology Andre Morgunov pointed out that: “the synthesis of nanoparticles and their application in textile material was conducted in solution, preparation of the solution needs to add low concentration (0.02 g/l) of silver halide (AgNO3) and positively charged polymer in water. At the same time, the fourth component, as a special reducing agent, plays an important role in the process of fabric modification. It interacts with salt to release silver nanoparticles that are firmly attached to the polymer structure.
The scientists used the solution to soak socks. The process takes place in a machine with a centrifuge, similar to a washing machine. Dry socks at the end. The solution could be used to make more than just socks. In the future, it could be used to make other types of clothing, such as underwear and gloves, as well as various medical dressings.
“The technology is simple,” says Andre Morgunov. “Companies don’t have to buy expensive equipment. The impregnating compound itself is also available. According to our calculations, disposing one kilogram of clothing costs no more than 40 roubles. As a result, the cost of producing socks and underwear from these materials will only increase 15% of the cost. He says the fabric treatment technique is much more economical than similar methods previously known. And the properties of the new fabric have been independently tested at the Ivanovo State Medical Academy.