Can Clothing Really Be Antibacterial and Antiviral?

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased the demand for fabrics with antimicrobial and antiviral properties. A wide range of products claiming to protect against microbial invasion is flooding the market. However, the mechanisms behind these functional fabrics vary, and their effectiveness differs depending on the technology used. This article will introduce the current mainstream technologies, helping consumers make more informed choices

Silver Ion Technology

Silver ions, used as a common antimicrobial agent, can be applied to fabrics either by coating or impregnating them with nanosilver ions. This process attaches the ions to the surface of the fibers, inhibiting bacterial growth. However, research on its antiviral effectiveness, especially against the COVID-19 virus, remains insufficient.

Microencapsulation Release Technology

This technology encapsulates antimicrobial and antiviral substances into microcapsules, which are coated onto the fabric. When worn, the microcapsules break open and release the antimicrobial and antiviral agents, providing a protective effect. It can inhibit microorganisms to some extent, but its effectiveness may diminish over time and with wear.

Electron Beam Grafting Method

This emerging technology uses electron beams to break chemical bonds on the fibers, allowing antiviral substances to be grafted into the fibers. When these antiviral agents come into contact with a virus, they can pierce the viral envelope, effectively destroying the virus. Although it is not yet widely used, it has the potential to become an effective antiviral technology.

Chitosan fibers and graphene

Chitosan fibers carry a positive charge, which can electrostatically attract negatively charged substances on the surface of bacteria, leading to bacterial death. On the other hand, the sharp edges of graphene nanosheets can puncture the cell walls of microorganisms, exhibiting good antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Different technologies have enabled the diversity of antibacterial and antiviral fabrics. Consumers should understand the technology used in the products and their actual effectiveness in antibacterial and antiviral aspects when purchasing. Although these fabrics have the potential to provide additional protection, they still need to be combined with other protective measures, such as frequent hand washing, ventilation, and wearing masks, to maintain health.