A New Antimicrobial ALCERU® Fibre with Silver Nanoparticles
Research and development
Authors:
- Wendler Frank
Native Polymers and Chemical Research, Thuringian Institute for Textile and Plastics Research, Rudolstadt, Germany - Meister Frank (j/w)
- Montigny Rene
Bio-Gate AG, Bremen, Germany - Wagener Michael (j/w)
 Full text | Abstract: Antimicrobial fibres were produced by the implementation of nanoscaled silver particles into a solution of cellulose and N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide (NMMO). Usage of particles with 80 – 140 nm and 5 - 20 nm grain size, which have a large surface, resulted in a much greater release of silver ions. Moreover, Lyocell fibre is favoured for its permeability of ions. Atomic absorption spectrometric and x-ray analysis confirmed sufficient recovery of the incorporated silver. Thermostability of the cellulose/NMMO solutions with a concentration of silver up to 500 mg/kg and textile processability is warranted. These items resulted in a low-loaded fibre ensuring the stability of the spinning process and typical Lyocell tensile strength. Finenesses below 0.2 tex are achieved without any problems. The bactericidal status of the fibre was determined by a new, more sensitive test assay (NUMETRIKA™) with a wide spectrum of activity. Less than 100 mg/kg of silver in the fibre give a pronounced bactericidal effect. The blending of higher loaded fibres with pure unmodified fibres is possible while maintaining antimicrobial activity. |
Tags: cellulose, N-methylmorpholine-N-oxide, Lyocell process, nanoscaled silver particles, antimicrobial fibres.