Heliyon (May 2024)
A novel non-woven fabric from bamboo fiber in medical lifestyle products
Abstract
The present study aims to investigate the appropriate size of bamboo fibers derived from waste bamboo and determine the optimal duration for soaking in bio-fermented water to facilitate fabric molding. Additionally, we seek to explore the properties of non-woven fabric products manufactured from bamboo fibers. The study factors encompass three grades of bamboo fibers, designated A, B, and C, as well as five levels of fermentation time: 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) experiment is planned to assess both physical and microbial properties. Furthermore, we will analyze the inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E.coli) bacteria in accordance with AATCC test standards and determine the optimal ratio for non-woven fabric molding. Regarding the ratio of bamboo fiber to polyester fiber, we will investigate three levels: 50:50, 70:30, and 100:0, with the objective of designing medical lifestyle products.Preliminary findings indicate that grade B bamboo fibers exhibit a light brown color and a relatively thin structure, with lengths ranging from 1 to 3 cm, rendering them suitable for most fabric production processes. Notably, unfermented bamboo fibers demonstrate higher inhibition of S. aureus and E.coli bacterial growth compared to their fermented counterparts. Additionally, our results suggest that the ingredient ratio significantly impacts the molding process, with a 99.94% effect. Remarkably, a blend of bamboo fiber and polyester fiber in a 70:30 ratio can be mechanically processed to create needle-pressed fabric, utilizing a method that involves pressing and tight weaving. This innovative approach facilitates the production of antibacterial non-woven fabric products suitable for elderly individuals, ready for practical use in community settings as a best practice solution.
