Effectiveness and durability of antimicrobial finishes applied to woven fabrics.

摘要

This study investigated the durability and effectiveness of antimicrobial finishes that had been applied to 65% polyester/35% cotton woven fabric sheets. Each finish was compared with the control and with each other. Three types of antimicrobial finishes were used to test durability and effectiveness.; A convenience sample of 36 children from a day-care facility napped on the sheets. Bacterial contamination was determined through a wear study. A quantitative experimental study design was utilized. The experimental design was a pretest/posttest control group design. Durability was evaluated by water resistance tests; effectiveness was evaluated by breaking force and reflectance tests.; Results of these tests indicated that the finishes were more durable and effective than the control fabric. The control fabric attracted dirt and oils. It was concluded that the finishes significantly changed the properties of the fabric by making them stronger and more resistant to bacterial contamination.