Novel Refreshable <i>N</i>-Halamine Polymeric Biocides:  N-Chlorination of Aromatic Polyamides

Abstract

Chlorination of poly( m -phenyleneisophthalamide) (Nomex) and poly( p -phenyleneterephthalamide) (Kevlar) fabrics by sodium hypochlorite aqueous solution was investigated. Results indicated that stable N -halamine structures could be readily formed in Nomex, which provided potent, durable, and refreshable antibacterial functions against both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria. However, similar chlorination treatment of Kevlar led to serious hydrolysis of the polymer. The treated fabrics were fully characterized by Fourier trasnform infrared, thermal, and X-ray diffraction studies. Possible mechanisms of this effect were discussed.