Antifungal activity of ionic liquid applied to linen fabric

Abstract This study aimed at improving the functionality of linen fabric by antimicrobial finishing with the use of ionic liquid, i.e., quaternary ammonium salt. Antimicrobial activity of ionic liquids strongly depends on their structure. An ammonium-based ionic liquid with nitrate anion named didecyldimethylammonium nitrate – [DDA][NO 3 ] –was tested. The study included testing the susceptibility of linen fabric protected with this salt to the biodeterioration process with special attention paid to fungi resistance. Finished linen fabric was tested in relation to the action of five mildew mixtures. The degree of microorganism growth and its effect on physical–mechanical properties of the fabrics were evaluated. The antimicrobial effectiveness of ionic liquid applied to linen fabric was determined by the use of SEM. Applying this biocide in the finishing processes of natural textile materials allows the attainment of antimicrobial barrier properties.