Researchers at Vadodara's Maharaja Sayajirao University have achieved a breakthrough in textile technology by creating a multi-functional cotton fabric that provides protection against mosquitoes, harmful UV rays, and bacteria while being environmentally sustainable.
The Innovation Behind the Fabric
The revolutionary project was conducted at the department of textile chemistry, faculty of technology and engineering, where master's student Jayant Patil worked under the guidance of department head Bharat H Patel and co-mentor Devang P Panchal. The team successfully infused cotton fabric with natural extracts from three powerful herbs: tulsi, lemongrass, and neem.
The researchers employed the pad-dry-cure technique, a continuous industrial finishing process that ensures uniform application and long-lasting results. "The pad-dry-cure technique allows the finish to be imparted evenly and consistently across the fabric," explained Patil, highlighting the method's effectiveness in creating durable protective properties.
Comprehensive Protection and Testing
The treated fabric underwent rigorous internationally standardized testing to validate its protective claims. Antibacterial activity was tested against common infection-causing bacteria E. coli and Staphylococcus aureus, demonstrating remarkable 98% antibacterial effectiveness that lasts through up to 30 normal washes.
Mosquito repellency was evaluated using the cage test method, where the fabric showed strong repellency against mosquito species responsible for transmitting dangerous diseases including dengue, malaria, and zika virus. Additionally, the fabric offered enhanced UV resistance, providing an extra layer of protection from sunlight exposure.
Professor Patel emphasized the ecological and practical advantages of their innovation. "Neem and tulsi provide hygienic benefits, while lemongrass adds freshness," he stated. "This fabric can be especially useful in hospitals — for aprons, curtains, and bedsheets — and also in baby care products."
Future Applications and Commercial Potential
The research team is currently preparing to file a patent for this groundbreaking technology and plans to transfer the know-how to industry partners once approved. This development signals a significant shift toward next-generation protective clothing, where everyday fabrics can serve as sustainable shields against disease, infection, and environmental hazards.
The innovation represents a perfect blend of traditional herbal knowledge and modern textile technology, offering a chemical-free alternative to conventional protective fabrics. With its multiple protective features and eco-friendly composition, this herbal-treated cotton fabric has the potential to revolutionize how we approach protective clothing in healthcare, childcare, and everyday use.
