Fabrication of Antibacterial Ag/Graphene-Integrated Non-woven Polypropylene Textile for Air Pollutant Filtering

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Air pollution and infectious diseases pose significant global challenges.
• Effective filtration and antibacterial solutions are urgently needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel textile with simultaneous particulate matter (PM) filtering and antibacterial properties.
• To integrate silver (Ag) and graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) into a non-woven polypropylene textile.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Ag/graphene-integrated textile via immersion in a solution.
• Characterization using SEM, XRD, EDX, and contact angle measurements.
• Evaluation of PM removal efficiency and antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli.

Main Results:

• Successful integration of Ag/GNP nanocomposite into the textile matrix.
• Achieved superhydrophobicity with a contact angle of 152°.
• Demonstrated 98.5% PM removal efficiency and significant antibacterial activity.
• Exhibited high durability and reusability after washing.

Conclusions:

• The Ag/graphene-integrated textile offers dual functionality for air purification and infection control.
• The material is durable, reusable, and highly effective in removing PM and eliminating bacteria.
• This innovation presents a sustainable approach to addressing air quality and public health concerns.