The effect of inorganic antimicrobial agents on PET filament properties

In this study, a polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) antimicrobial masterbatch containing silver, zinc, and copper antimicrobial agents was added to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and spun into an antimicrobial partially oriented yarn which was then texturized into a draw-textured yarn (DTY). Filtration pressure rise and spinning tests indicated that the silver antimicrobial masterbatch had the best long-term spinnability. In addition, the strength and elongation of the antimicrobial DTY were reported to match practical standards, indicating that PET containing a silver antimicrobial agent can contribute to a smooth spinning process. In an antibacterial test of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria before and after finishing, only the silver fabric maintained over 99.99% antibacterial effectiveness. Thereafter, the silver textile was tested for strains of influenza A virus H1N1 and H3N2 to evaluate its antiviral activity before and after dyeing; the textile containing 2% silver antimicrobial agent exhibited optimal antiviral effectiveness. In conclusion, the silver-containing fabrics exhibited long-lasting antibacterial and antiviral effects.