Supercritical carbon dioxide application using hydantoin acrylamide for biocidal functionalization of polyester

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Polyester fiber functionalization for biocidal properties is challenging due to limited tethering groups.
• Developing effective and durable antibacterial surfaces on textiles is crucial for hygiene and healthcare applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the use of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) for applying N-halamine biocides to polyester fibers.
• To assess the antibacterial efficacy, durability, and impact on material properties of the functionalized polyester.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a specific N-halamine precursor: N-(2-methyl-1-(4-methyl-2,5-dioxo-imidazolidin-4-yl)propan-2-yl)acrylamide.
• Application of the N-halamine onto polyester fabric using supercritical carbon dioxide at 120°C and 30 MPa for varying durations.
• Evaluation of antibacterial activity against E. coli, chlorine loading, color loss, mechanical properties, and durability to abrasion.

Main Results:

• The N-halamine treatment in scCO2 successfully imparted antibacterial activity against E. coli.
• A 6-hour exposure time was identified as critical for achieving sufficient antibacterial efficacy.
• The functionalized polyester exhibited good durability to abrasion, stability, and rechargeability of chlorine, with tolerable loss in color and mechanical properties.

Conclusions:

• Supercritical carbon dioxide is a viable, resource-efficient, and eco-friendly technique for biocidal functionalization of polyester surfaces.
• This method offers a promising approach for creating durable and rechargeable antibacterial polyester textiles.
• Further research can explore broader applications for functionalization and modification of polyester using this scCO2-based technique.