TEXTILES.ORG
The German Institutes of Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) is developing an antimicrobial textile coating and fibers with partner Heraeus Precious Metals’ AGXX technology. The metallic AGXX particles contain silver and ruthenium and kill bacteria, fungi, algae and viruses.
The reaction of the particles to humidity creates peroxide molecules but does not give off any silver particles, unlike other antimicrobial systems based on the release of silver ions. The AGXX technology could offer permanent efficacy while also preventing resistance since it is not consumed by the reaction.
The work is focusing on the optimal concentration of AGXX particles and technical specs for a textile finish while keeping the fabric wearable. An additional goal is to incorporate the technology into spinnable polymers. Testing will look at abrasion resistance, air permeability and the effects of going through wash cycles.
The research contributes to the goals of reducing the risk of infection from reusable medical workwear and informs future mass production of durable, reliable antimicrobial textiles.