Multifunctional WO ₃ Nanoparticle-Coated Smart Textiles via Plasma Sputtering: Antibacterial Efficiency and Cellular Safety

Nanofabrics, also known as nanotextiles or smart textiles, are a promising solution for combating infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, offering an alternative to antibiotics. This study focuses on enhancing the antimicrobial properties of cotton material by depositing WO 3 nanoparticles on the textile surface using low-temperature plasma sputtering technology in a pure oxygen atmosphere. The properties of the deposited WO 3 nanoparticles were evaluated using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) combined with Energy-Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The developed antibacterial textiles were tested against 18 microbial strains, including both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, as well as fungi, demonstrating high antimicrobial efficacy against most. The growth of bacteria Pasteurella multocida was promoted following exposure to WO 3 nanoparticles, while the tested material showed no effectiveness against the fungus Candida albicans REF10231. The cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of the WO 3 nanoparticle-modified textile were assessed in vitro utilizing human endothelial HUVEC cells. No evidence of short-term (24-hour exposure) or long-term (72-hour exposure) toxicity was detected in textiles subjected to treatment with WO 3 nanoparticles. However, for practical use, toxicity studies are essential to assess the safe application of these materials in clinical settings. This research highlights the potential of WO 3 nanoparticle-modified textiles in addressing the global challenge of microbial infections while offering a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional antimicrobial treatments.