Enhanced bactericidal performance of textiles through compound antimicrobial agents.

This article investigates the combined antimicrobial effects of three agents—Iodopropylbutylcarbamate (IPBC), 1-hydroxypyridine-2-thioketone zinc (ZPT), and 2-octyl-3-isothiazolinone (OIT)—when applied to nylon textiles used in public health settings. Using Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as test bacteria, the study measured minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC50) individually and in combination, finding additive or independent antimicrobial effects with a composite agent at 0.2 wt.% achieving over 99% inhibition of both strains. The finishing process incorporated these agents into an acrylic copolymer applied to nylon fabric, resulting in significant antimicrobial activity without compromising fabric whiteness or tensile strength. This research offers a practical method for producing antimicrobial textiles suitable for medical and related environments.