Evaluation of Antimicrobial Properties of Silver Nanoparticle-Treated Cotton Fabrics for Healthcare Applications in Lagos University Teaching Hospital

Textile-associated healthcare-acquired infections represent a significant challenge in Nigerian hospital environments, necessitating the development of antimicrobial textile solutions. This study evaluates the antimicrobial properties of cotton fabrics treated with silver nanoparticles, assessing their potential for use as patient gowns and bed linens at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State, South West Nigeria. Silver nanoparticles were synthesised by chemical reduction using silver nitrate and sodium borohydride, characterised by UV-visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Fabrics were treated by pad-dry-cure method at nanoparticle concentrations of 100, 200, and 300 mg/L. Antimicrobial efficacy was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans using the AATCC 100 quantitative method. Durability of antimicrobial activity was evaluated through 10 and 20 laundering cycles. Results demonstrate concentration-dependent antimicrobial activity, with 300 mg/L nanoparticle-treated fabrics achieving greater than 99.9 percent bacterial reduction against all test organisms. Durability testing showed retention of greater than 95 percent activity after 10 wash cycles, declining to 76 percent after 20 cycles. Fabric tensile strength was marginally reduced by 8 percent following nanoparticle treatment, remaining within acceptable performance thresholds. Colour change was negligible for treated fabrics. The study recommends silver nanoparticle treatment as a viable strategy for reducing cross-infection risks in Nigerian healthcare textiles, with standardised protocols for application concentration and laundry management. Keywords: silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial textile, cotton fabric, healthcare, Lagos