Characterization and Performance Evaluation of Chitosan-Finished knitted fabrics for Enhanced Functional Properties | ||
| Egyptian Journal of Chemistry | ||
| Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 23 November 2025 | ||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||
| DOI: 10.21608/ejchem.2025.428352.12415 | ||
| Authors | ||
| Rania N. Shaker1; Shimaa H. AbdElrahman1; Hassan M. Ibrahim* 2 | ||
| 1Women’s Faculty, Ain Shams University | ||
| 2Textile Research Division, National Research Centre, 33 El Bohouthst. (Former El Tahrir St.), Dokki, Giza, Egypt, P.O.12622 | ||
| Abstract | ||
| Chitosan is a naturally occurring substance that has a variety of uses due to its nontoxicity, bioactivity, and biodegradability it has a lot of commercial potential due to its wide range of antibacterial qualities. The physicochemical characteristics of chitosan are linked to its antibacterial activity, which varies and is contingent upon the kind of microorganisms being treated. This study examines the impact of chitosan treatment on knitted cotton/polyester (65/35) blend fabrics using a pad-dry-cure method. Different concentrations of chitosan (0.2-1.0% o.w.f.) and citric acid (3-10% o.w.f.) with sodium hypophosphite as catalyst were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity and effects on fabric properties. Results showed that increasing concentrations of both chitosan and citric acid enhanced antimicrobial activity against gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus), gram-negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria, and fungi (Aspergillus Niger). Optimal treatment (1% chitosan, 8% citric acid, curing at 160°C for 3 min.) achieved >96% antimicrobial activity while improving fabric wettability, crease recovery angle, and color strength. Fabric stiffness decreased slightly, and treated fabrics retained over 90% of their antimicrobial activity after 15 wash cycles. Light and wash fastness both recorded grade 4 with no significant change in antimicrobial performance. | ||
| Keywords | ||
| Chitosan; Polyester/ cotton blend; knitting fabrics; antimicrobial activity; Finishing | ||
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