Antibacterial Activity of Textiles Functionalized with SilverSil

Natural (cotton) and synthetic (polyester) fabrics functionalized with the SilverSil xerogel powder dispersed in water-repellent, eco-friendly commercial textile finishings, acquire substantial antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Here demonstrated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, said activity is due to the Ag nanoparticles sol–gel entrapped within the organically modified silica matrix. Cotton fabrics treated with SilverSil using the rod-coating method show a reduction in bacterial growth of 90.1% for S. aureus and 99.0% for E. coli. Ease of deposition using the rod-coating method, low application rate, and enhanced physical and chemical stability of the ORMOSIL-entrapped Ag nanoparticles are promising toward the production of durable antimicrobial fabrics and garments, minimizing antimicrobial resistance.