Evaluation of antimicrobial effects of nano-silver coated nylon carpets

Carpets are commonly used in our lives and are in contact with microorganisms. Antimicrobial agents should be used for the prevention of unwanted effects of microorganisms and control of their transmission. In this study, antimicrobial suspension of nano- silver was used for covering of nylon carpets. Different concentrations of nano- silver suspension were used by spraying method for covering of nylon carpets. In different examinations, small pieces of carpets (0.5 ´ 1 cm2) were treated with bacterial suspensions of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Before and after examination, the numbers of bacteria were counted and decreasing rate of them was determined. In nylon carpet with 25 ppm nano silver, decreasing rate of bacteria was 73.3%, while in carpets with 50 ppm and more, decreasing rate was 99.9%. Silver stability was assessed after 1 to 10 times of standard washing in 60 ºC with household bleach for 20 min. Silvers of carpet surface were established and saved their antibacterial effects after washing. Spraying nano- silver solution on commodities and factory products can prevent transmission of many microorganisms and infection diseases.