Enhancing the Antimicrobial Activity of a Vinyl-Coated Fabric Product by Using a Dual Multilayered Organic-Inorganic Additive System

Abstract

Biocide additives are a crucial component in the manufacturing of vinyl-coated fabrics as they prevent the colonization of microorganisms that may significantly reduce the lifespan of these materials. In this study, we have constructed a vinyl-coated fabric product entailing the addition of an organic biocide in the compact layer and a silver-based inorganic biocide in the topcoat layer. The multilayered addition of this dual protective system to the coated fabric rendered an outstanding antimicrobial efficacy that persisted after exposure to real conditions of use that included high temperature, surface cleaning, and abrasion cycles. Changes in the morphology and chemistry of the surface after exposure were monitored by ATR-FTIR, SEM-EDS, and apparent water contact angle measurements. These results were also correlated with the antimicrobial efficacy (E. coli and S. aureus) and cell adhesion analysis. Remarkably, the antimicrobial efficacy remained over a 2.0 index even after severe surface wear. In this way, it was demonstrated that the simultaneous use of these two different additives provided a significant reduction in the cell adhesion properties of the vinyl-coated fabric surface. Thus, the combination of biocides in different layers of the vinyl-coated fabric herein presented can serve as the starting point for the future development of high-quality vinyl-coated fabrics with enhanced and long-lasting antimicrobial properties to be used in marine outdoor and healthcare environments.