Work

Eco-sustainable functionalization of hemp fibers through a sequential process employing tannic acid and copper ions for elevated antibacterial efficacy

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Drug-resistant bacterial infections pose a significant threat to public health. As a functional textile material, antibacterial fibers can effectively inhibit the spread of diseases and offer solutions to mitigate infection risks. However, industrial hemp fibers tend to lose their native antibacterial properties during processing procedures, particularly degumming, rendering them incapable of meeting human antibacterial needs. In this study, we developed a novel antibacterial fiber, Cu-TA@HF, through a simple and eco-friendly synthesis approach to stably load tannic acid and copper ions onto the surface of hemp fibers without compromising their mechanical properties. To validate the successful modification and the combination of tannic acid with copper ions, SEM, AFM, FTIR, XPS, XRD, and TGA were employed. The results of antibacterial tests revealed that Cu-TA@HF effectively inhibits the growth of E. coli and S. aureus , demonstrating potent antibacterial effects with an antibacterial ratio exceeding 98 %. Moreover, it retains its superior antibacterial activity even after 50 washes. Notably, Cu-TA@HF showed cytotoxic effects on RAW264.7 cells. These findings highlight the significant potential and antibacterial application value of Cu-TA@HF in textiles and medical fields.

Source: Industrial Crops and Products

DOI: 10.1016/j.indcrop.2025.122576

Authors: Xiaojiang Jia, Shuting Xie, Mingbao Luan, Baiquan Zeng, Li Chang

Institutions: Central South University of Forestry and Technology, Institute of Bast Fiber Crops, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Dyeing and Modifying Textile Fibers

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,720