Nanotechnology provides a new concept for the improvement of the antimicrobial
activity of the textile fibers. Natural dye extracted from red prickly pear using microwave
heating was used for dyeing wool fibers. Chitosan-Propolis nano composite was applied as
treatment on wool fibers before dyeing by using microwave and ultra sonication methods.
The dye concentration and pH factors as well as color strength, color data and fastness
properties of the dyed wool fibers were investigated. The results indicated that wool fibers
pretreated with the tested nanomaterials exhibited better results than the untreated samples.
Nano composite of chitosan and propolis showed antimicrobial activity against some
pathogenic fungi and bacteria. The results indicated that the antimicrobial activity of the
natural dye under investigation was good and it was enhanced by treatment with the nano
composite. The morphological structure of the untreated and pretreated wool fibers was
examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The untreated wool fibers have a rough
surface. The pretreated wool fibers were swollen as compared to the untreated fibers. The
diameter of the fibers increased, and the surfaces became smooth and even.
Keywords
Nano chitosan, Propolis, Red prickly pear, Natural dye, Antimicrobial activity
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY
Published by : Association of Agricultural Technology in Southeast Asia (AATSEA) Contributions welcome at : http://www.ijat-aatsea.com
By using our website, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy and Privacy Policy.