Surface modification of textiles by green nanotechnology against pathogenic microorganisms

Abstract Infections caused by opportunistic and pathogenic microorganisms are a relevant cause of death within the hospital environment. Therefore, it is necessary to look for ways to help minimize the number of infections acquired within that environment. Fabrics are in constant contact with the patient and can be a relevant source of contamination. An alternative is the development of hospital textiles that prevent the adhesion and growth of microorganisms on their surface. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are recognized for their antimicrobial potential and can be applied for this purpose. This study reports a simple, fast, and eco-friendly synthesis of AgNPs based on green nanotechnology and their application in hospital cotton fabrics to effectively fight against microbial growth with no mammalian cytotoxic effects at all tested concentrations. AgNPs biosynthesized by Beta vulgaris extract was evaluated using UV–Vis spectrophotometer, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and zeta potential. AgNPs showed activity against the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, the Gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and the yeast Candida albicans. An excellent antimicrobial potential was observed when associated with the textiles, allowing its potential application as smart textiles with microbicidal activity in hospital environments. No cytotoxic effects have been reported on both HEK293 and HeLa cells at the tested concentrations. Thus, these smart textiles could be used in hospital environments such as in sheets and pillows, as they inhibit microbial growth. Consequently, they would help prevent hospital infections caused by opportunistic pathogens present in them.