PHOTOCATALYTIC INACTIVATION OF HOSPITAL-ASSOCIATED BACTERIA USING TITANIA NANOPARTICLE COATED TEXTILES

Abstract

Modification in hospital textiles to include disinfection properties may help in the reduction of nosocomial infections. Antibacterial properties were imparted to cotton fabric by modifying it with pure and (1%) silver doped titania nanoparticles (NPs) prepared through liquid impregnation process. These NPs were attached to cotton fabric using a cross linking agent succinic acid. Samples were washed at three different temperatures (30, 60 and 90°C), with and without detergent and for different number of cycles to test the durability of NPs to fabric. Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer were used for the characterization of coated fabric. Catalytic spectrophotometry using UV/visible spectrophotometer was applied to determine titanium dioxide concentration in washing effluent. The antibacterial activity of the fabric was examined against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) under UV and fluorescent light. The maximum durability of NPs to the fabric was retained after washing without detergent at 30°C. Coating of NPs on fabric was found durable against washing, hence suitable from an environmental perspective. Antibacterial testing showed 100% photocatalytic inactivation of MRSA after 4 and 24 hours of UV and fluorescent light exposure respectively. The potential of using such textiles in hospital environment was validated through the use of modified bed linens in a local hospital. The viable count indicated significantly lower loads of bacterial contamination on nano-coated fabric as compared to uncoated fabric. Bed linens, curtains, staff uniforms, lab coats and medical garments developed from titania nanoparticle coated fabric may improve hospital environment against antibiotic resistant micro-organisms.