Examining the harbor of microorganisms on various textures of fabrics

Nov 28, 2018 • 6:08 AM UTC

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Microorganisms

Sangita

Fabrics when in mist state are exposed to fungi. The fungi development can be seen using foldscope. fungi damages and ruptures the fiber structure thus leading to weakening of fibers.

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It is a well known fact that garments are made from variety of fabrics. This variation in fabrics is due to textures created on fabrics by wearing process or due to usage of different types of fibers. Such variety of garments create variety of loops and styles in apparels. Garments accumulate dirt and other impurities when used: such impurities become a source of microorganism growth.
1. Collection of different fabric textures and categories of fibers were done. The identification of fibers was done through some laboratory tests like burning test, microscopic test and chemical test.
2. All the fibers and fabric samples were kept in hot and humid atmosphere by applying food articles (potato starch/ mashed banana/ curd/ other etables) and maintaining adequate temperature and moisture.
3. The growth of microorganisms on textured fabrics and different categories of fibers was observed thoroughly for about 4 to 7 days.
4. Slides of the fibers where fungal growth was observed from the textured fabrics and on pure fibers were prepared.
5. The growth of fungus on the prepared slides was observed with the help of foldscope or microscope.
6. The prepared slides containing microorganisms were photographed in the form of images for record keeping.
The results of the above experiment are highlighted below:
The harbor of microorganisms were found in 3-4 days on all type of textures, but on nylon fabric (smooth texture) had less harbor compare to the other textured fabrics. The slides were prepared from each fabric and observed through foldscope.