Textile and Apparel Science

Textile Applied-Visually Indicating Bacteria Sensor (Vibs) Using Tetrazolium Salt for Simple and Direct Detection

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Abstract

The global market for personal protective equipment has grown significantly since COVID-19. With the increasing demand for protective equipment and sanitary materials, the diversification of protective levels and functions is to be expected. Specifically, protective materials for detecting biological pollutants found in indoor air, such as bacteria, has been in demand. However, meticulous operational procedures, such as spectrophotometric assays, involving upscale equipment hinder rapid detection of bacteria and the corresponding follow-up protocols. Herein, a visually indicating bacteria sensor (VIBS) membrane or textile was developed via electrospinning using PU, CA, and PVP incorporated with INT to visually and rapidly detect microbial pathogens. Variation in wettability, detection time, and bacterial and INT concentration showed discernible response rates for visual sensing. The color strength of formazan formed on VIBS showed correlation with bacteria concentration. Ultimately, the sensor membrane, capable of visually indicating and providing quantitative approximation of bacteria, can be applied in bacterial detection for personal protective equipment, filters, and medical gowns.

Keywords: bacteria sensor, colorimetric detection, visual quantification, personal protective equipment

How to Cite:

Song, E. & Kim, J., (2022) “Textile Applied-Visually Indicating Bacteria Sensor (Vibs) Using Tetrazolium Salt for Simple and Direct Detection”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13799