Improving adsorption effect of modified carbon felt on microorganisms in pig houses

The pathogenic microorganisms in the air have a significant impact on piglet growth and even biosecurity of pig industry. Carbon felt-based microbial adsorption shows great potential in reducing the misuse of chemical disinfectants in pig houses. However, poor biocompatibility and low adsorption efficiency hinder the application of carbon felt for microbial control in animal husbandry. Herein, modified carbon felt was prepared with strong acid to improve its surface properties and internal structure. The hydrophilic and large specific surface area of modified sample offered high adsorption activity for bacteria adhered on biotic/abiotic interface. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, pore specific surface area analysis, and scanning electron microscopy were used to analyze the chemical functional groups and microporous structure of the modified carbon felt. Antibacterial tests were performed using the model bacteria Escherichia coli. Acid treatment converts the hydrophobicity of carbon felt to hydrophilicity, increasing adsorption capacity and promoting a disinfection rate of up to 97.3%. This study can enhance bioaffinity and adsorption selectivity of carbon felt to Escherichia coli, bringing its antibacterial activity and application prospects closer to industrialization.