The growing demand for protective wear with enhanced hygiene and breathability drives the antibacterial face masks innovation. Therefore, this study aims to explore a novel approach by applying titanium dioxide (TiO2) nano-coatings to the inner layer of nonwoven face masks – a departure from conventional outer-layer treatments. Its objective is to improve antibacterial performance under visible light, while maintaining comfort.
Nonwoven polypropylene fabrics were coated with TiO2, using sol-gel techniques, synthesised with nitric acid, with and without Arabic gum adhesive. The antibacterial activity was investigated against six respiratory-relevant bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia and Acinetobacter baumannii). The colony count was determined using OpenCFU. Air permeability, water repellence and fibre morphology were tested.
The 50% TiO2-coated textile, without adhesive, demonstrated the highest antimicrobial efficacy, high breathability (∼253 cm³/cm²/s) and moderate hydrophobicity (water contact angle 100°).
Current research introduces a breakthrough in face mask design under visible light, by demonstrating that the inner-layer covered with 50% TiO2 coatings offer an excellent antibacterial activity, breathability and moisture resistance – meeting global standards for personal protective equipment. It presents a novel solution for testing a broad spectrum of pathogens, improving user comfort.
