Evaluating a One-Bath Process for Imparting Antimicrobial Activity and Repellency to Nonwoven Surgical Gown Fabrics

Abstract

A one-bath process to apply both antimicrobial and fluorochemical repellent finishes to nonwoven surgical gown fabrics is investigated in this study. The finishes are applied to two nonwovens: a polypropylene spunbonded/meltblown/spunbonded fabric and a wood pulp/polyester spunlaced fabric. Four different add-on levels of the finishes are applied to each fabric, resulting in sixteen finish combinations per fabric. Results show that both finishes are compatible for application in a one-bath process, and the antimicrobial and repellent properties are adequate with this process. Minimum chemical add-on levels of the antimicrobial and oil repellent finishes to achieve acceptable antimicrobial and repellent properties are determined for each fabric. The effectiveness of the antimicrobial finish is not affected by the repellent finish, but the effectiveness of the repellent finish varies with the add-on level of the antimicrobial finish.