Effect of Plant based Antimicrobial finishes on Polyester fabric

Abstract

Microorganisms are present everywhere in the environment and can be helpful for mankind in number of ways. Their harmful effects on cloths can be prevented by using a simple antimicrobial finish in fabrics. In this cross-sectional study, an eco-friendly antimicrobial finisher were extracted from leaves of Azadirachata indica, Butea monosperma and Litchi chinensis plants and applied on 100% polyester. The plant leaves were extracted, grinded, soaked and filtered by Whatman filter paper. It was concentrated by rotatory evaporator. The antimicrobial finish was applied on polyester fabric by the pad dry cure method and fixed by using polyurethane binder. The presence of antimicrobial finish on fabric was checked by ASTEM E2149 shake flask method. There was no microbial growth, even after 22 hours or after 6 days interval in experimental group. The eco-friendly antimicrobial finishes made 89% reduction in microbial growth. All three experimental group do not allow any microbial colony to grow while eight colonies were observed in control group. Extract obtained from L chinensis may cause little damage in surface of fabric. So, it was concluded Antimicrobial finishes are suitable to provide protection against microorganisms and can be used for the medical industry, paramedical staff, sportswear, home furnishing as well as for use of common people.