Banana leaf extract-based emulsions for multifunctional healthcare textiles

Abstract

The study focuses on the investigation of emulsion derived from natural waste from two different varieties of Musa acuminata, "Red banana leaf" (RBL) and "Yellow banana leaf" (YBL) for finishing of cotton and silk fabric samples. Both the samples are treated with three different concentrations (5, 10 and 15%) of emulsions extracted from banana leaves. The antibacterial activity of the treated samples is evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. The silk samples treated with 15% RBL show significant antimicrobial activity, with 85% effectiveness against S. aureus and 82% against E. coli. The study further investigates the ultraviolet protection factor and wash durability of the treated textiles. The developed technology can be useful in addressing critical healthcare issues, offering benefits, such as antimicrobial activity, wound healing and improved patient comfort.