Optimization of β-cyclodextrin grafting on wool fibers improved by plasma treatment and assessment of antibacterial activity of berberine finished fabric

In this study, the process of grafting of beta-cyclodextrin on wool fabric was optimized using response surface methodology. Low temperature oxygen plasma was used to improve the absorption of beta-cyclodextrin on wool fibers. Four independent factors including plasma time and power besides beta-cyclodextrin and citric acid concentrations were selected and the effects of these factors on the weight gain of the samples were examined and optimized using D-optimal approach. FTIR, SEM and wicking test were employed to confirm the changes on the wool fibers. The effect of weight gain on the color strength of samples dyed with berberine natural colorant was investigated. The natural dye was better absorbed by samples with higher amount of weight gain. The sample with the highest amount of weight gain and finished with berberine natural colorant was examined for antibacterial property and showed great antibacterial activity against both gram positive and f negative bacteria.