Antimicrobial Fabric Treatments: Health and Performance

Antimicrobial treatments control odor, improve hygiene, extend fabric life. Types: silver ion (most common, 99.9% bacterial reduction), copper-based, zinc pyrithione, quaternary ammonium compounds, natural (bamboo, chitosan). Silver mechanism: ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes, prevent reproduction. Application: embedded in yarn, applied during finishing, or in topical coating. Durability: 50-100 washes for embedded silver, 10-20 for topical. Testing: AATCC 100 (quantitative), ISO 20743, JIS L 1902 measure bacterial reduction percentage. Environmental concerns: silver release into water systems, EU regulations limiting concentration. Applications: activewear, medical scrubs, hospitality linens, military uniforms. Cost: $0.50-2.00/meter premium. Huada offers silver ion treatment as custom option.