The potential use of nanotechnology for antimicrobial functionalization of cellulose-containing fabrics

Abstract Currently, a wide range of antimicrobial agents are available and used to inhibit the growth or kill the pathogenic microorganisms for preventing the cross-infection and inhibiting the spread of infectious diseases, counteracting the development of unpleasant odor, and/or protecting the textile materials from damage due to the microbial attack. Recently, there has been an increased interest in replacing the non-eco-friendly antimicrobial agents and nonsustainable application techniques with eco-friendly sustainable ones for fabricating high performance and function textile materials to meet both the consumer needs for hygienic clothing, as well as textile ecology aspects, namely, production, human, and disposal ecology. This chapter highlights the advantages of using nanotechnology and nanostructured materials in antimicrobial and hygiene finishes of cellulose-containing textiles. Classification of the major antimicrobial agents based on nano-sized materials, preparation and application methods, mode of action and attack, evaluation of imparted antimicrobial efficacy, as well as future prospects would also be discussed.