Review of Antibacterial Finishing Processes with Plasma for Cotton

Textiles are a suitable substrate for the growth of micro-organisms, especially at appropriate humidities and temperatures, when in contact with the human body. Due to the awareness that healthcare textiles enhance the quality of life, antimicrobials and antibacterial textiles have received, and continue to receive, considerable attention from researchers due to their potential to provide quality and safety benefits to many products. However, antimicrobial agents and antibacterial finishing processes have not grown in number because of possible harmful or toxic effects on humans and the environment. The application of rechargeable, safe antimicrobial agents and eco-friendly antibacterial finishing processes are being studied. This paper analyzes the disadvantages and advantages of antimicrobials and antibacterial finishing processes and finds suitable antimicrobials and antibacterial finishing processes for cotton. It is anticipated that the review will be a good resource for those who are interested in antimicrobials and biocidal textile materials, and will help to stimulate further interest in this area.