Thyme essential oil for antimicrobial protection of natural textiles

The study was aimed at increasing the resistance of lignocellulosic textiles to bacteria and mould action using a biocide of plant origin. The biocide used in the study was thyme essential oil. This kind of oil is characterized by low toxicity for humans and the environment. The antimicrobial efficiency of thyme essential oil applied to linen-cotton blended fabric and linen fabric was evaluated by determining bacterial growth, degree of mould growth, and their impact on fabric strength. Thyme essential oil applied as 8% concentration in methanol to linen-cotton blended fabric showed very high antibacterial and antifungal activity - no mould growth and no significant loss of breaking force were observed. Microscopic evaluation of the tested fabrics was also performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy. Applying the eco-friendly biocide to fabrics containing natural fibres in the finishing process produces antimicrobial barrier properties. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.