Citric acid-crosslinked nanosilver finishing of indigo-dyed denim for potential surgical gowns

Purpose This paper aims to develop an indigo-dyed denim fabric treated with a nanosilver colloid in the presence of a natural crosslinker of citric acid for possible surgical gown fabrication applications. Design/methodology/approach A bleached denim fabric was dyed with the sustainable indigo dye followed by silver nanofinishing through citric acid crosslinking under the pad-dry-cure method. The prepared denim samples were analyzed for chemo-physical, textile, dyeing, antibacterial and finish release properties. Findings The results demonstrated that the comfort and textile characteristics of nanosilver-treated/indigo-dyed cellulosic fabric were affected due to the crosslinking, surface amphiphilicity and air permeability. These properties were, still, in the acceptable range for the fabrication of naturally dyed and antibacterial nanofinished denim gowns. Practical implications The dyeing of denim with synthetic dyes may cause harmful effects on the skin and health of the wearer, and the authors present an eco-friendly sustainable approach. Originality/value The authors used the fabric substrate, natural indigo dye and reducing/crosslinker agent of citric acid, all being bio-based, in the fabrication of antibacterial dyed fabric for health care garments.