Publication

Advanced Redox Technology Lab

Journal papers

Durable and reusable antiviral polypropylene fabric via facile UV-assisted modification
Author
A. Murali. S. Oh. J. Cho. C. Lee. S.C. Hong.
Journal
Surf. Interfaces
Issue / Vol
vol.. 59, p. 105916
Date
(2025.02.15)
Year
2025

Polypropylene non-woven fabric (PNW) is widely used in hygiene products, medical supplies, personal protective equipment, and filters due to its biocompatibility, thermal stability, permeability, and affordability. During the COVID-19 pandemic, PNW became crucial in protecting frontline healthcare workers. However, its susceptibility to bacterial and viral contamination, coupled with its contribution to single-use plastic waste problems, necessitated improvement. This study introduces a sustainable solution by modifying PNW with [2-(acryloyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium chloride oligomer (OAETC), a quaternary ammonium compound, through azobisisobutyronitrile-initiated free radical polymerization and UV irradiation. OAETC was covalently bonded to PNW, imparting durable antiviral properties that persisted through multiple washes and extended storage. The modified PNW demonstrated over 99.99 % inactivation of bacteriophage Emesvirus zinderi (MS2) and exhibited effective antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). Its biocompatibility, confirmed by minimal cytotoxicity in HaCaT cells, underscores its potential for safe application. This research offers a simple but promising strategy for enhancing the functionality and reusability of PNW, thereby addressing public health concerns and mitigating environmental impact.



49b4337178971771cd5ff762060f1c19_1741073744_084.jpg