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Introduction
Textiles are omnipresent and play an essential part in human society. Cloths may contain certain types of microbes, which has been recently discussed as clothing microbiology and the effect and interaction of cloths with human skin microflora [1]. Coatings of natural antimicrobial agents on the textiles or fabrics date back to ancient times, when the Egyptians used spices and herbal coatings on cloths to prepare the mummy wrap. Traditionally, the Chinese used bamboo fibers, which contained an antimicrobial compound called ‘Bamboo-kun’ for housing structure. Bamboo fibers have also been explored for their natural antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are mediated by 2–6-dimethoxy-p-benzoquinone and dendrocin [2]. Application of antibiotics developed during the Second World War; at the same time, the use of antimicrobials to prevent textiles from rotting was also in demand. Tents, tarpaulins and truck covers were required to be protected from microbial attack during heavy rain and snow that would destroy fibers and also increase the chances of infection. To protect the fabric from microbial colonization and increase their durability, several military fabrics were treated with antimony salts, copper and a mixture of chlorinated waxes, which not only stiffened the fabrics but also gave them a distinct odor [3]. During initial times, the side effects of these antimicrobials were not considered, however, more attention was paid toward the adverse effects of these chemicals on the environment and health. The concept of safer antimicrobial compounds and textiles came into existence following the publication of Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring in 1962. Different sectors including ecologists, scientists, industrialists and chemists worked collectively to produce eco-friendly antibiotics [4].
In the present era, antimicrobial textiles are very helpful in hospitals, environment and places that are prone to microbes, which are baleful. The clothes are worn by the patients, healthcare workers and doctors may have a lot of microbes present on them, which can be transmitted easily from one person to another. Commercial opportunities abound for antimicrobial fabrics whenever it is about controlling the spread of infectious microorganisms [5]. Antimicrobial textiles can be termed based on their specificity against microbes, i.e., antibacterial, antifungal, or/and antiviral. Several antimicrobial textiles may also act against bacteria, fungi and viruses simultaneously. Some chemicals may be used to target a broad range of...