Textile Fibers

Nanoparticles have been incorporated into products such as nylon, polypropylene and other polymers to provide long-term antimicrobial character even in harsh environments and after extensive thermal cycling. The need for minimizing or eliminating microbial growth on a variety of textile-based substrates has become a major topic of discussion in numerous industries, including healthcare, home furnishings, filtration and apparel, among others. NanoTek^® zinc oxide, copper oxide or doped zinc oxides, due to the small particle size, can be readily incorporated into synthetic fibers such as Nylon prior to extrusion through spinnerets to impart antimicrobial activity with minimal effects on color and clarity, surface gloss, physical properties and melt flow properties. NanoTek^® products may also be incorporated into coatings that can be applied to staple fibers to impart antimicrobial activity. Such applications include carpet fibers, water filters of various types, fabrics for use in healthcare facilities and various institutions, activewear and other apparel, home furnishings and a variety of non-woven applications including the transportation and bedding industries. Zinc oxide is FDA approved for skin contact applications and NanoTek^® zinc oxide is produced under cGMP conditions and is approved as an active ingredient for personal care products.