Abstract

Microorganisms are found everywhere in our world and most of them cause infectious diseases to human beings such as viruses, fungi, pathogenic bacteria etc. Suitable conditions like nutrients, warmth and humidity may accelerate the growth of these harmful microbes on textiles which not only increase the risk of spreading diseases but also cause some unwanted effects to textile products including loss of strength, decoloration and unpleasant smell. Antimicrobial agents are ultimate solution which inhibit and kill the microorganisms and are applied to textile products. Antimicrobial textiles are consumed continuously where fabric surface is expected to contact microorganisms. Much attentions have paid for development and finishing of these functional agents onto textiles. Various kinds of antimicrobial agents and finishes which provides superior safety, recharge ability, durability and excellent disinfection power are discussed in this article.

Keywords: Antimicrobial agents; Textile fabric; Antimicrobial activities; Mechanisms; Performances