EFFECT OF ANTIMICROBIAL FINISH ON MECHANICAL PROPERTY OF POLYESTER FABRIC

This study investigated the effect of plant-based antimicrobial finishes on the mechanical and functional properties of 100% polyester fabric (twill weave, 82 GSM). Crude aqueous extracts of Azadirachta indica, Butea monosperma, and Litchi chinensis leaves were prepared and applied to pre-treated fabric using the pad-dry-cure technique in the presence of a polyurethane binder. The fabric was scoured and bleached prior to finishing to ensure uniform treatment. Mechanical properties, including tensile strength and tear strength, were evaluated according to EN ISO 13934-1 and ASTM D1424-07 standards, respectively, in both warp and weft directions. Antimicrobial activity was assessed using the ASTM E2149 shake flask method against selected Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria, and fungal strains. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to confirm the presence of functional groups associated with the applied finish, while Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine surface morphology and coating deposition on treated fabrics. The results revealed a statistically significant improvement in mechanical properties of treated samples compared to the untreated control (p < 0.05). Fabrics treated with Butea monosperma and Litchi chinensis extracts exhibited the highest enhancement in tensile and tear strength, which is attributed to the formation of a uniform surface coating. Antimicrobial testing demonstrated effective inhibition of microbial growth, with treated fabrics showing up to 100% reduction in microbial colonies even after repeated laundering cycles. Overall, the application of plant-based antimicrobial finishes provides an eco-friendly and sustainable approach to enhance both durability and antimicrobial performance of polyester fabrics.