To overcome the current activated charcoal impregnated protective clothing and face masks, we attempted polyelectrolyte composite nano-fibrous materials for protective clothing applications. The current material has the disadvantages such as wearer discomfort, moisture absorption and heaviness.  Nanofibers possess high surface area to volume ratio and the pores present in the nanofibers have the capability to exchange moisture together with selective blocking of chemical vapors.  Hence they are tested as non-woven fabrics for protection against chemical and biological (CB) warfare agents. We achieved polyelectrolyte membranes through eco-benign water mediated green electrospinning further enhancing their usage with cheaper production cost. The usage of water soluble poly-electrolytes along with nanoparticle composite enables synergistic antimicrobial activity.  The nano-composite nanofiber membrane was fabricated by the method of layer-by-layer electrospinning and layer-by-layer deposition of poly-electrolytes. Comparison of antimicrobial activity against Escherichia Coli with varying concentrations of polyelectrolytes and incorporated silver nano-particles is done which showed that the nanofiber material as a versatile antimicrobial membrane. Thus fabricated silver nanoparticle composite functionalized polyelectrolyte nanofibers can be applied as filters to protect the wearer from bacterial contaminants. The application of the nanofiber material for broad spectrum antibacterial activity and for anti-infective protective wear needs is ongoing.

Silver nanoparticle incorporated novel polyelectrolyte composite nanofibers with antimicrobial and anti-infective properties for protective clothing applications

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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