Real-time monitoring of bacterial inactivating process of tailored bactericidal and antifouling cotton fabric with preserving its physicochemical properties and biocompatibility

Microorganisms present on cotton fabric (CF) significantly affect its wearing comfort and pose potential threats to human health. This is mainly attributed to the porous and hygroscopic nature of CF, which easily adsorbs proteins, oily substances, and mineral salts, creating a favorable environment for microorganism proliferations. The bacteria firmly adhered to CF are difficult to remove by conventional washing, resulting in persistent stains. Furthermore, the mechanisms underlying bacterial interaction with fibers and bacterial inactivation remain to be fully understood. Herein, we synthetized reactive Gemini quaternary ammonium salt (CGQ) and sulfopropylbetaine (CGB) to covalently bind onto CF, thereby engineering a customized antimicrobial and antifouling CF while preserving its physicochemical properties. Real-time monitoring of the bacterial inactivation process was also performed. The antimicrobial efficacy of CF finished with CGQ and CGQ/CGB, employing only 5.0 mg/mL antimicrobial concentration, surpassed 95 % against Escherichia coli and 99 % against Staphylococcus aureus after 50 washes. The loosely adhered bacteria on CGQ/CGB-finished CF can be easily eliminated through conventional washing, resulting in an enduring antimicrobial and antifouling surface. Consequently, we have developed a straightforward strategy for the large-scale production of superior antimicrobial and antifouling CF, presenting a versatile solution with wide applications. Additionally, this method offers an efficient strategy for real-time monitoring of the microorganism inactivation process.