Investigation of Antibacterial Properties of Titanium Dioxide Nano Colloids on the Surface of Historical Cotton Fabrics

In this study, a new method for antibacterialization of historical cotton fabrics was evaluated. Due to the fact that the desired results of the application of nanomaterials in the field of protection of historical textiles in Iran have not been recorded so far, the antibacterial properties of titanium dioxide nanocloid on historical cotton fabrics were investigated. The experimental sample was prepared by simulating a study sample and then sprayed titanium dioxide nanocloid on it and the samples were aged for 72 hours. Scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) was used to observe the distribution of nanoparticles on the surface of fabric fibers and to control its antibacterial properties, bacterial culture was used in nutrient agar-based salt medium. Electron microscopy showed the presence of nanoparticles on the surface of the fabric fibers. Subsequently, culturing Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis in saline medium resulted in 60 % reduction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa growth and 30 % reduction in Bacillus subtilis in the presence of nanomaterials, which can be improved by optimizing the method, quality and number of nanoparticles. In addition, due to the observed color change in the fabric after aging of the samples and the importance of this in the preservation of historical monuments, optimization of the colloidal solution used is necessary.