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  • Application of Biocides and...
    Majchrzycka, Katarzyna; Okrasa, Małgorzata; Jachowicz, Anita; Szulc, Justyna; Brycki, Bogumił; Gutarowska, Beata

    Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 09/2019, Volume: 24, Issue: 18
    Journal Article

    Studies on the functionalization of materials used for the construction of filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) relate to endowing fibers with biocidal properties. There is also a real need for reducing moisture content accumulating in such materials during FFR use, as it would lead to decreased microorganism survival. Thus, in our study, we propose the use of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs), together with a biocidal agent (biohalloysite), as additives in the manufacturing of polypropylene/polyester (PP/PET) multifunctional filtering material (MFM). The aim of this study was to evaluate the MFM for stability of the modifier's attachment to the polymer matrix, the degree of survival of microorganisms on the nonwoven, and its microorganism filtration efficiency. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to test the stability of the modifier's attachment. The filtration efficiency was determined under conditions of dynamic aerosol flow of bacteria. The survival rates (N%) of the following microorganisms were assessed: and bacteria, yeast, and mold using the AATCC 100-2004 method. FTIR spectrum analysis confirmed the pre-established composition of MFM. The loss of the active substance from MFM in simulated conditions of use did not exceed 0.02%, which validated the stability of the modifier's attachment to the PP/PET fiber structure. SEM image analysis verified the uniformity of the MFM structure. Lower microorganism survival rates were detected for , , and on the MFM nonwoven compared to control samples that did not contain the modifiers. However, the MFM did not inhibit growth. The MFM also showed high filtration efficiency (99.86%) against bacteria.