Use of aqueous dispersions of magnesium compounds for functional finishing of textiles - Patent Application 20070122999

Abstract

The present invention provides compositions and aqueous dispersions comprising magnesium oxide as the sole active agent or in combination with ammonium phosphate / polyphosphate for imparting antibacterial and / or antiviral properties to textile products. The present invention further provides methods for preparing such compositions and aqueous dispersions, and methods for using them for textile finishing.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to aqueous dispersions comprising magnesium compounds, in particular specific grades of magnesium oxide, alone or in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate. The dispersions are provided for use in the field of functional finishing of textiles, in particular as antiviral and antibacterial textile finishes. [Background technology]

[0002] Polymers in commercial applications contain additives to improve the processability of the polymer and to modify its properties. For example, textile products contain flame retardants to increase fire resistance and biocides to prevent or at least inhibit the deposition and growth of microorganisms on or within the fabric. The additives are incorporated into the finished textile product using various techniques. For example, the additives can be incorporated into a solution, emulsion, or aqueous suspension, and then the fabric is immersed in the solution, squeezed to remove excess liquid, and dried.

[0003] Biocides commonly used by the textile industry include organocopper compounds, organotin compounds, and chlorinated phenols (https: / / www.fibre2fashion.com / industry-article / 27 / biocides-in-textile). Silver-based microbial agents and metal-based inorganic compounds, such as zinc oxide, zinc salts, and copper(II) salts, have also been tested on fabrics as discussed by Uddin (International Journal of Textile Science, 2014 3(1A) 15:20).

[0004] Further examples can be found in the patent literature. Canadian Patent No. 1,334,273 describes certain phosphate ester-based microbicidal compositions for use on textiles. Treatment of polyester fabric with an antimicrobial agent consisting of an alkyl phosphate ester (as a quaternary ammonium salt) and a diisocyanate is described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 10-088482. Providing an antimicrobial finish to cotton fabric immersed in ammonium sulfate and an ethoxylated alkylamine is described in Chinese Patent No. 105297401.

[0005] There is considerable interest in developing textile finishes with antibacterial and antiviral activity. Such finishes are particularly valuable because they can help prevent the spread of infectious diseases and allow for the use of textile materials in hospitals without the need for frequent sterilization. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Inorganic magnesium compounds with low solubility in water, particularly specific grades of magnesium oxide (magnesia, MgO) and / or magnesium hydroxide, are available on the market in a variety of grades designed for various industrial needs: Magnesium oxide is used in the plastics industry (e.g., as an additive in rubber and resins), the pharmaceutical industry (e.g., to produce granules for making tablets), and the steel industry (to manufacture steel plates for transformers).

[0007] The inventors have tested the activity of several grades of MgO in textile products and found that MgO by itself exhibits bacteriostatic, antiviral and moderate antibacterial effects in such products (e.g. polyester fabrics), and that the above actions of MgO are strongly enhanced when it is mixed with ammonium polyphosphate (APP), e.g. ammonium polyphosphate aluminum salt, and applied to the fabric.

[0008] Both MgO and APP are water-insoluble powders. The inventors have prepared a co-formulation in which MgO and APP are dispersed in water in the presence of a binder (required to adhere the active compound to the fabric) and with the aid of conventional additives (e.g., dispersants, thickeners). The MgO / APP aqueous co-formulation can be used to deliver active ingredients to fabrics by conventional techniques used by the textile industry, such as padding, coating, and immersion.

[0009] Thus, one aspect of the present invention is a composition comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant and a thickener.

[0010] In some embodiments, magnesium oxide according to the present disclosure has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm. 10 , d in the range of 1.5 μm to 6.0 μm 50 and d in the range of 5.0 μm to 45.0 μm 90 and the magnesium oxide has a particle size distribution of: a) 5.0 to 25.0 m 2 Surface area in the range of / gr, b) Loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.2% to 8.0% c) a bulk density in the range of 0.25-0.50 gr / ml, and d) further characterized by having a citric acid activity (CAA 40) in the range of 25 to 200 seconds.

[0011] In other embodiments, the magnesium oxide according to the present disclosure has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 1.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 5.0 to 45 μm. 90 , 5.0~25.0m 2 They are characterized by a surface area in the range of / gr, an LOI in the range of 0.2–5.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.30–0.50 gr / ml, and a citric acid activity ( 40 ) in the range of 80–200 s .

[0012] In a further embodiment, the magnesium oxide according to the present disclosure has a d in the range of 0.8 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 10.0 to 45 μm. 90 , 5.0~15.0m 2 They are characterized by a surface area in the range of / gr, an LOI in the range of 2.0–8.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.25–0.35 gr / ml, and a citric acid activity ( 40 ) in the range of 100–200 s .

[0013] In yet a further embodiment, the magnesium oxide according to the present disclosure has a d in the range of 1.0 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 10.0 to 45.0 μm. 90 , 5.0~10.0m 2 They are characterized by a surface area in the range of / gr, an LOI in the range of 0.2–6.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.3–0.5 gr / ml, and a citric acid activity ( 40 ) in the range of 100–200 s .

[0014] In another of its aspects, the present disclosure provides an antiviral and / or antibacterial textile finish aqueous dispersion comprising the composition defined herein and, optionally, a binder. In other words, the present disclosure provides an antiviral and / or antibacterial textile finish aqueous dispersion comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant, a thickener, and, optionally, a binder. The aqueous dispersion defined herein is useful for textile finishing and imparting antiviral and / or antibacterial properties to textile products.

[0015] In some embodiments, the textile finish aqueous dispersion according to the present disclosure comprises: 67 to 90% by weight of water, 2 to 20 wt. % MgO, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant, and 0.1-0.5 wt% of a thickener.

[0016] In other embodiments, the textile finish aqueous dispersion according to the present disclosure comprises: 67 to 90% by weight of water, 2 to 20 wt. % MgO, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant; 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a thickener, and 1.5-15% by weight of binder.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the textile finish aqueous dispersion according to the present disclosure comprises ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, and optionally further comprises a binder.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the ammonium polyphosphate according to the present disclosure is ammonium aluminum polyphosphate.

[0019] In other embodiments, the textile finish aqueous dispersion according to the present disclosure comprises: 37 to 94% by weight of water, 5 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate; 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant, and 0.1-0.5 wt% of a thickener.

[0020] In still further embodiments, the textile finish aqueous dispersion according to the present disclosure comprises: 37 to 94% by weight of water, 5 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate; 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant; 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a thickener, and 1.5-15% by weight of binder.

[0021] In some embodiments, the surfactant according to the present disclosure is an anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant. In other embodiments, the thickener according to the present disclosure is a cellulose derivative or a swellable synthetic polymer. In further embodiments, the binder according to the present disclosure is an acrylate, polyurethane, or PVC binder.

[0022] In a further aspect thereof, the present disclosure provides a method of finishing or treating a textile product with the antiviral and / or antibacterial aqueous dispersion defined herein, wherein a binder is present in the dispersion.

[0023] In some embodiments, the method according to the present disclosure is to render a textile product virustatic or antiviral. In some embodiments, the method according to the present disclosure is to render a textile product virustatic or antiviral against viruses of the Coronaviridae family.

[0024] In further embodiments, the method according to the present disclosure is to impart bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties to a textile product. In an embodiment, the method according to the present disclosure is to impart bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties to a textile product against bacteria associated with hospital-acquired infections. In yet further embodiments, the hospital-acquired infections according to the present disclosure are associated with Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli, or a combination thereof.

[0025] The present disclosure further provides for the use of magnesium oxide as at least one of a virostatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial textile finish.

[0026] Still further, the present disclosure provides the use of magnesium oxide in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate as at least one of a virostatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic, or antibacterial textile finish.

[0027] According to another of its aspects, the present disclosure provides a textile product coated with an antiviral or antibacterial finish comprising magnesium oxide, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product, e.g., up to 15% or 20% by weight.

[0028] The present disclosure still further provides a textile product comprising magnesium oxide in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product, such as up to 15% or 20% by weight, and the amount of ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate is at least 0.5% by weight of the textile product, such as up to 2% by weight.

[0029] In some embodiments, the textile product according to the present disclosure is a medical textile product, a facial mask, or a cloth filter. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1-1] 1A and 1B are graphs showing the weight loss (%) of HA4 grade MgO samples during TGA tests conducted at temperatures ranging up to 600° C. (FIG. 1A) or up to 900° C. (FIG. 1B). [Figure 1-2] This is a continuation of Figure 1-1. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are graphs showing the virus counts measured at various time points within an AATCC test assay performed on spunbond nonwoven 100% polypropylene 30 GSM fabric coated with an aqueous dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO ("MgO HA4") or an aqueous dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO and APP ("MgO HA4+TexFRon® AG") and inoculated with coliphage MS2 during the first 4 hours of the assay (FIG. 2A) or the entire length of the assay (FIG. 2B). "Control" refers to uncoated fabric. [Figure 3]3A and 3B are graphs showing the measured bacterial counts at various time points within an AATCC test assay performed on spunbond nonwoven 100% polypropylene 30 GSM fabric coated with an aqueous dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO ("MgO HA4") or an aqueous dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO and APP ("MgO HA4+TexFRon® AG") and inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus during the first 6 hours of the assay (FIG. 3A) or the entire length of the assay (FIG. 3B). "Control" refers to uncoated fabric. [Figure 4-1] 4A-4C are graphs showing the measured bacterial counts at the indicated time points in an AATCC test assay performed in the presence of Staphylococcus aureus on polyamide-Lycra fabric samples coated with HA4 grade MgO aqueous dispersions containing AC-178 (FIG. 4A), AC-2403 (FIG. 4B), or AC-75032 (FIG. 4C) and subjected to 10, 20, 35, or 50 wash cycles. "Control" refers to uncoated fabric. [Figure 4-2] This is a continuation of Figure 4-1. [Figure 4-3] This is a continuation of Figure 4-1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] In its most common form, the preparation of magnesium oxide is based on the calcination of magnesium hydroxide. The temperature profile in the calcination kiln influences the properties and activity of the resulting magnesium oxide.

[0032] Magnesium oxide grades suitable for use in the present invention are selected to meet a set of criteria, such as the following: -d 10 ≦1.5μm (e.g., 0.5-1.5μm, 0.5-1.0μm, or 0.8-1.3μm), 1.5μm≦d 50 ≦6.0μm (e.g., 1.5 to 5.0μm) and 5.0μm≦d 90≦45.0 μm, for example, 8.0 μm≦d 90 ≦45.0 μm or 5.0 μm ≦d 90 d such that ≦30 μm microns (measured by laser diffraction) 10、 d 50 and d 90 Particle size distribution (PSD) characterized by values. - 5.0m 2 / gr, preferably 5.0 to 25.0 m 2 / gr, more preferably 5.0 to 15.0 m 2 / gr, preferably 5.0 to 10 m 2 / gr or 5.0~9m 2 Specific surface area in / gr (measured by the BET method). - a citric acid activity (CAA 40) in the range of 25 to 200 seconds, preferably 80 to 200 seconds, for example 150 to 200 seconds. - Loss on ignition (LOI, a measure of the residual magnesium hydroxide content) in the range of 0.2 to 8.0 wt.%, for example 4.0 to 8.0 wt.%, preferably 0.2 to 3.0 wt.% or 0.2 to 1.0 wt.%. - Bulk density in the range of 0.25-0.50gr / ml, e.g. between 0.30-0.40gr / ml or 0.25-0.35gr / ml.

[0033] For example, and as demonstrated below, the magnesium hydroxide residual content (TGA) was 0.724% for the detailed magnesium oxide (HA4 grade) preparation tested as shown in Figure 1A (TGA run to a temperature of 600°C), and for an additional HA4 grade magnesium oxide preparation, the magnesium hydroxide residual content (TGA) was 2.073% (for TGA run to a temperature of 900°C) as shown in Figure 1B.

[0034] Grades meeting the above-specified properties are available on the market (e.g., MgO HA4 grade, MgO SIG-SC grade or MgO SIG-S grade from ICL-IP). An exemplary preparation of MgO for use in the present invention is based on the grinding (dry grinding) of an MgO product obtained by calcination of magnesium hydroxide at temperatures ranging from 600 to 950°C and is shown in the experimental section below. Alternatively, the preparation of MgO for use in the framework of the present invention may be based on the wet grinding of magnesium hydroxide, prior to the calcination step mentioned above. Magnesium hydroxide itself can be obtained by hydration of the thermal decomposition product of magnesium chloride (Aman process) or by precipitation reaction, i.e., between magnesium chloride and an alkaline agent, such as sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide or ammonium hydroxide.

[0035] The physical properties of MgO grades suitable for use in the present invention can be determined based on methods well known in the art, such as those detailed in the Examples below.

[0036] In one of its aspects, the present disclosure provides an antimicrobial and / or antiviral textile finish aqueous dispersion comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant and a thickener, and optionally a binder.

[0037] To prepare the compositions of the present invention, magnesium oxide powder characterized as described herein, surfactants, and thickeners are mixed by any method known to those skilled in the art. Preferred surfactants and thickeners are described below.

[0038] To prepare an aqueous dispersion of MgO, MgO powder (e.g., MgO HA4 grade from ICL-IP) is mixed with water in the presence of one or more surfactants, e.g., a dispersing agent, and optionally a wetting agent, using a laboratory-scale dissolving / dispersing machine operating at 300-600 revolutions per minute (rpm). A thickener is then added. The aqueous dispersion as defined herein may further comprise a binder, e.g., an acrylic binder, which is added last to the dispersion.

[0039] A stable dispersion of MgO in water is formed with an MgO content of 2% by weight or more, e.g., 2-20% by weight, based on the total weight of the MgO dispersion. When present, the binder concentration is typically 1.5-15%. The surfactant (e.g., dispersion medium) concentration is 0.5-4%. The thickener concentration is 0.1-0.5%. When added, the wetting agent concentration is 0-0.4% (up to 0.4%). The MgO dispersion may optionally further comprise softeners and additional textile additives known in the art.

[0040] Thus, a preferred MgO aqueous dispersion of the present invention comprises (weight percentages relative to the total weight of the MgO aqueous dispersion): 67 to 90% by weight of water, for example, 70 to 80% by weight; 2 to 20 wt. % MgO, for example, 9.9 to 13.4 wt. %, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant (e.g., a dispersion medium), e.g., 0.9 to 1.5 wt. %, 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a thickener, for example, 0.3 to 0.5 wt. %, and 1.5-15% by weight of binder, e.g., 9-15% by weight.

[0041] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "aqueous dispersion" (used interchangeably with "aqueous suspension") should be understood to mean a dispersion of the solids (powder) and additives described herein in an aqueous carrier. Aqueous dispersions are typically characterized by a concentration of solids ranging from 20% to 40% by weight of the total weight of the aqueous dispersion / suspension. The solids content includes all components of the dispersion except the aqueous carrier, such as MgO powder, APP powder (i.e., ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, if present), binder, surfactant (e.g., dispersant), etc.

[0042] As detailed herein, the inventors have found that the action of MgO is strongly enhanced when it is delivered to fabrics in admixture with ammonium polyphosphate (APP), e.g., ammonium aluminum polyphosphate. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the enhanced antibacterial and antiviral properties are due (among other things) to the uniform textile coating obtained by adding APP to the aqueous dispersion defined herein.

[0043] Accordingly, the present invention further provides an antimicrobial and / or antiviral textile finish aqueous dispersion as described herein, further comprising ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate.

[0044] Ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate suitable for use according to the present invention is preferably a polyvalent metal complex of ammonium polyphosphate, i.e., a reaction product of phosphoric acid in condensed form (superphosphate); a polyvalent metal source (e.g., an aluminum compound, e.g., Al(OH)3); and ammonium hydroxide, which can be recovered as a white, free-flowing, finely divided powder, i.e., ammonium aluminum polyphosphate or ammonium aluminum superphosphate in amorphous form, as described in WO 2016 / 199145, and in particular U.S. Pat. No. 8,524,125. 3- High phosphorus content, greater than 60% by weight, e.g., 70% to 80% by weight, measured as NH4 +A nitrogen content of greater than 8 wt.%, e.g., 9-10 wt.%, measured as d 50 <5 microns, d 90 <15 microns and d 99 and TexFRon® AG from ICL-IP, with a particle size distribution of <35 microns. The designation APP is used herein to refer to any ammonium phosphate / polyphosphate containing a polyvalent metal complex as exemplified and / or specified above. Further phosphate agents suitable for use according to the invention, in cases where multiple wash cycles are not required, are, inter alia, monoammonium phosphate (MAP) or sodium pyrophosphate decahydrate (NAPP).

[0045] In a specific embodiment, the MgO / APP co-dispersion as defined herein comprises MgO and ammonium polyphosphate, which is ammonium phosphate / TexFRon® AG (ammonium aluminum polyphosphate).

[0046] The MgO / APP co-formulation (interchangeably referred to as a co-dispersion) according to the present disclosure can be prepared by first separately blending or dispersing each of the MgO and APP components described above. The resulting individual MgO and APP dispersions are then combined to obtain the MgO / APP co-formulation, i.e., in dispersion form. The weight ratio of MgO:APP in the co-formulation can range from, for example, 5:1, up to 20:1, for example, 10:1, 15:1, etc.

[0047] Alternatively, MgO / APP co-formulations according to the present disclosure can be prepared by co-suspending both water-insoluble solids in a single dispersion. Specifically, MgO powder (e.g., MgO HA4 grade from ICL-IP) is mixed with water in the presence of one or more surfactants, e.g., a dispersing agent, and optionally a wetting agent, using a laboratory-scale dissolving / dispersing machine operating at 300-600 revolutions per minute (rpm). APP (e.g., TexFRon® AG from ICL-IP) is added continuously and gradually, while stirring continues. The last component added is an (optional) binder, e.g., an acrylic binder, a thickener, and optionally, a softener.

[0048] A stable dispersion / suspension of both MgO and APP in water is formed having an MgO content of 5% or more, e.g., 5-20% by weight, based on the total weight of the MgO / APP dispersion, and an APP content of 0.5% or more, e.g., 0.5-4% by weight, based on the total weight of the MgO / APP dispersion. The binder concentration is 1.5-15%. The surfactant (e.g., dispersion medium) concentration is 0.5-4%. The thickener concentration is 0.1-0.5%. If added, the wetting agent concentration is 0.1-0.5%, and the MgO / APP dispersion may optionally further comprise a softener and additional textile additives known in the art.

[0049] Thus, the present invention further provides an aqueous dispersion comprising: 37 to 94% by weight of water, 5 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium phosphate / ammonium polyphosphate, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant; 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a thickener, and 1.5-15% by weight of binder.

[0050] A preferred aqueous dispersion of the present invention comprises (weight percentages relative to the total weight of the MgO / APP aqueous dispersion): 37 to 94% by weight of water, for example, 75 to 90% by weight; 5 to 20 wt. % MgO, for example, 9.9 to 13 wt. %, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate, for example, 0.9 to 2% by weight; 0.5 to 4% by weight of the dispersing medium, for example, 2 to 4% by weight; 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a thickener, for example, 0.2 to 0.3 wt. %, and 1.5-15% by weight of binder, e.g., 5-10% by weight.

[0051] As known to anyone skilled in the art, the amount of binder will vary according to the desired application, for example, if wash durability is required, a greater amount of binder will be used compared to if fabric softness is required, in which case a lesser amount of binder will be used.

[0052] A binder is required to adhere MgO, either alone or in admixture with APP, to the fabric and is therefore part of the aqueous dispersion of the present disclosure (although it can be added immediately prior to application of the dispersion to the fabric). Representative examples of binders suitable for use in textiles are described in WO 2016 / 199145 and include, but are not limited to, acrylate, polyurethane, and PVC binders. Preferably, the binder used in the dispersions described herein is an acrylate. The acrylic monomer structural unit of the acrylic resin can be selected from alkyl acrylates and alkyl methacrylates (alkyl esters of acrylic or methacrylic acid), with the alkyl group preferably being C1-C5 alkyl, e.g., methyl, ethyl, propyl (e.g., n-propyl), and butyl (e.g., n-butyl). The parent acid, acrylic or methacrylic acid, can be used in small amounts to obtain the resin. The acrylic monomer may optionally be functionalized. Additional examples include 2-phenoxyethyl acrylate, propoxylated 2-neopentyl glycol diacrylate, polyethylene glycol diacrylate, pentaerythritol triacrylate, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethyl acrylate. Commercial acrylic resins containing 47-90% solids (e.g., AC-170, AC-178, AC-2403, AC-75032, etc.).

[0053] The MgO or MgO / APP suspensions / dispersions described herein may further contain customary additives. The main types of additives include: one or more surfactants, i.e., dispersion medium, emulsifier, wetting agent, dispersion medium / wetting agent combination (typically 0.5 to 4% by weight each, e.g., 1.5 to 2.5% by weight each); one or more softening agents (typically 2-5% by weight each, e.g., 2-3% by weight each); one or more rheology modifiers, i.e. thickeners (typically 0.1 to 0.5 wt.% each, for example 0.2 to 0.5 wt.% each).

[0054] A dispersion medium, wetting agent, or dispersant possessing the requisite wettability is present in each of the individual MgO or MgO / APP suspensions described herein, i.e., at a concentration of 0.5 to 4.0 wt. % (e.g., 1.5 to 2.5 wt. %), based on the total weight of the individual suspension. The dispersion medium can be an oligomer, polymer, or alkoxylate, as described in WO 2016 / 199145. For example, to prepare MgO and MgO / APP suspensions, a polymeric anionic surfactant (e.g., TERSPERSE® 2735 from Huntsman), sodium polymethacrylate (e.g., or Darvan®-7N from Vanderbilt Minerals, LLC), or anionic surfactants based on salts of sulfonic acids (e.g., alkylarylsulfonates, e.g., sodium diisopropyl naphthalene sulfonate) can be used at a concentration of 2 to 4 wt. % based on the total weight of the MgO or MgO / APP aqueous dispersion. Polymeric dispersion media may be used, such as non-ionic acrylate copolymers (eg, DYSPERBYK®-2010, available in emulsion form).

[0055] Rheological additives, such as thickening and anti-settling agents, e.g., water-soluble non-ionic polymers, e.g., the commonly used hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) thickener, are usually added at a concentration of 0.1-0.5 wt. % relative to the total weight of the MgO or MgO / APP aqueous dispersion in each of the individual suspensions / dispersions.

[0056] For example, to prepare the MgO and / or MgO / APP suspensions described herein, the thickener Cellosize™ QP 100MH (hydroxyethyl cellulose, high molecular weight HEC, 1% Brookfield viscosity of 4400-6000 cp; particle size # mesh of at least 98%) was used at 0.1-0.5 wt % based on the total weight of the MgO or MgO / APP aqueous dispersion.

[0057] One or more softeners (e.g., ethers and polyglycol esters, ethoxylation products, paraffins, fats or fatty acid condensates) may further be added to the suspensions of the present disclosure in the final stage of their preparation, in a concentration ranging from 2 to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the MgO or MgO / APP aqueous dispersion, to each one of the individual suspensions.

[0058] Additional textile additives that may be used in preparing the dispersions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, antifoaming agents, preservatives, dyes, pigments, and any mixtures thereof.

[0059] As detailed herein, the present invention further provides a method of finishing or treating a textile product with an antimicrobial and / or antiviral aqueous dispersion as defined herein, i.e., comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant, a thickener, a binder and optionally ammonium phosphate / ammonium polyphosphate.

[0060] Specifically, the present invention relates to a method comprising finishing or treating a textile product with any one of the aqueous dispersions described and defined herein, wherein the method of the present invention is for imparting at least one of virustatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties to the textile product.

[0061] Textiles can be rendered bacteriostatic, virustatic, antibacterial, and / or antiviral by treating or coating them with the dispersions described herein by any industry-acceptable means, such as padding (a wet finishing process involving impregnation of the fabric with the formulation / dispersion, followed by squeezing the fabric between heavy rollers to remove any excess formulation), coating, spraying (or otherwise applying the aqueous dispersion defined herein to the textile or fabric). Dip-coated fabrics are typically cured in 3-6 minutes at about 120-160°C (a thermal process intended to evaporate the solvent and promote any chemical reactions necessary to fix the finish in the textile / fabric). Other types of fabrics and techniques for treating them with the aqueous dispersions defined herein are described in WO 2016 / 199145.

[0062] The application of the aqueous dispersions defined herein to textiles may be effected, for example, during the dyeing or finishing stage of the textiles by their manufacturer, or at a later stage (e.g., after the preparation of the textile product is complete). The application of the aqueous dispersions defined herein to textiles may be repeated.

[0063] As exemplified below, the aqueous dispersions of the present invention are added to textile products or fabrics in an amount effective to inhibit, or at least stop or inhibit, microbial growth. The resulting textile products contain additives collectively referred to as "add-ons." The term "add-on" level (or percentage) refers to the total amount of additives (including inactives) added to the treated textile product or fabric, calculated based on the difference between the weight of the fabric before and after treatment / curing (i.e., dried fabric). Sufficient bacteriostatic or antibacterial, virustatic or antiviral properties, i.e., prevention or 1-3 orders of magnitude reduction of microbial growth in microbial cultures, are achieved by utilizing MgO or MgO / APP aqueous suspensions / dispersions, as defined herein, at "add-on" levels of 2-20% by weight of fabric, respectively, as described in the Experimental Section below.

[0064] Thus, according to a further aspect thereof, the present invention provides a textile product treated or coated with an antiviral or antibacterial finish (aqueous dispersion) comprising magnesium oxide, surfactants, binders, thickeners and optionally ammonium phosphate / ammonium polyphosphate, in which the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product, such as 15% or up to 20% by weight, and the amount of APP, if present, is at least 0.5% by weight, such as up to 2% by weight. The total dry weight added to the fabric by the dispersion as defined herein is between 2 and 20%.

[0065] Experimental work carried out in support of the present invention demonstrates that MgO suspensions prepared as detailed herein, when padded onto different types of fabric samples, exhibit bacteriostatic and mild antibacterial effects as evidenced by an approximately one order of magnitude reduction in bacterial counts by 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0066] Fabrics treated with dispersions prepared as detailed herein, including a combination of MgO (HA4 grade) and APP (TexFRon® AG), exhibited strong antimicrobial efficacy (e.g., as demonstrated in Example 1), with bacterial counts reduced by approximately three orders of magnitude after 24 hours compared to time zero.

[0067] Furthermore, in Example 2, the inventors demonstrated the antiviral properties of suspensions containing MgO alone or in admixture with APP, prepared as detailed herein and applied to fabrics. The antiviral properties were demonstrated by a reduction in virus counts of approximately three orders of magnitude 24 hours after application of the suspension compared to time 0.

[0068] Thus, according to another of its aspects, the present disclosure provides the use of magnesium oxide as at least one of a virostatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial textile finish.

[0069] According to a further aspect, the present disclosure provides the use of magnesium oxide in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate as at least one of a virostatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial textile finish.

[0070] In particular, the present invention relates to magnesium oxide, and optionally ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate (or an aqueous textile finish dispersion containing them), for use as an antiviral textile finish, and to the use of magnesium oxide, and optionally ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate (or an aqueous textile finish dispersion containing them), as an antimicrobial textile finish.

[0071] In other words, the present invention provides a method for preventing or inhibiting bacterial or viral growth on a textile product (or part thereof), comprising the step of finishing or treating said textile product with an antiviral and / or antibacterial aqueous dispersion comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant, a thickener, a binder, and optionally ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate.

[0072] Thus, the present invention further provides a method for imparting virustatic or antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties to a textile product, the method comprising the step of finishing or treating said textile product with an aqueous dispersion comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant, a thickener, a binder and optionally ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate.

[0073] As shown in the examples that follow, antibacterial and antiviral effects were demonstrated on textiles treated with aqueous dispersions containing MgO, alone or mixed with APP, and the textiles were exposed to (or inoculated with) Staphylococcus aureus, coliphage MS2, and E. coli.

[0074] The growth of microorganisms known in the art can be accomplished by any microorganism or combination thereof. The present disclosure relates to any microorganism, including, but not limited to, viruses (e.g., viruses of the Coronaviridae family) and bacteria (e.g., Escherichia coli or bacteria associated with hospital-acquired infections, such as, but not limited to, Staphylococcus aureus (e.g., Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The present invention can contribute to the inhibition of growth of additional microorganisms, such as archaea, algae, fungi (e.g., yeasts and molds), protozoa, and combinations thereof.

[0075] As used herein, the term "inhibiting microbial growth" refers to slowing or stopping the rate of growth, or eliminating live microbial cells, for example, by about 1, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40, 50% or more up to 100% compared to an untreated textile object.

[0076] The antibacterial and / or antiviral (as well as virostatic or bacteriostatic) properties of the aqueous dispersions of the present disclosure can be determined by any method known in the art, for example, by performing the AATCC 100 test method for testing textiles. The AATCC 100 test method evaluates the antibacterial properties of textiles over a 24-hour (possibly extended) contact period and quantitatively evaluates biostatic (growth inhibition) or biocidal (killing of microorganisms) properties. The test method consists of sample preparation, sterilization, inoculation, incubation, washing / shaking, and counting.

[0077] Textile finishing, as defined herein, relates to imparting antiviral and / or antibacterial properties to textiles, including virostatic and bacteriostatic properties, respectively. The term "biocide," as known in the art, refers to a substance that kills microorganisms and their spores. Depending on the type of microorganism affected, biocides may be further defined as bactericides (or antibacterial agents), such as antiviral agents, algicides, and fungicides (antifungicides). The general term "biostatic" refers to substances that prevent the growth (proliferation) of microorganisms and their spores, and includes bacteriostatic (referring to bacteria), virostatic (referring to viruses), fungistatic, and algaestatic substances.

[0078] As shown in the following examples, the aqueous dispersions of the present invention containing MgO alone or a combination of MgO and APP (MgO / APP) can be applied to a variety of textiles (fabrics or fabrics) composed of fibers selected from natural, synthetic, or blends thereof, such as wool, silk, cotton, nylon, polypropylene, linen, hemp, ramie, jute, acetate, lyocell, acrylic, polyolefin, polyamide, polylactic acid, polyester, rayon, viscose, spandex (elastane, also known as polyamide-Lycra), metal composites, ceramic, glass, carbon or composite carbonized materials, and any combination thereof, woven / knitted, or nonwoven (e.g., for producing filters, e.g., air conditioning filters). Exemplary textiles are woven 12% nylon 66, 88% cotton 170 grams per square meter (GSM), spunbond nonwoven 100% polypropylene 30 GSM, 20 GSM, and Lycra.

[0079] A textile product as defined herein is therefore made of a woven / knitted or nonwoven fabric, and the amount (percentage) of MgO by weight, and the amount (percentage), if present, of APP, in the fabric is determined based on considerations known to those skilled in the art based on the type of fabric.

[0080] The dispersions defined herein are applicable to any textile product, including, but not limited to, medical textiles (e.g., protective medical facial masks, medical filters, medical bandages, medical dressings, etc.), articles of clothing (e.g., facial masks), fabric filters (e.g., for producing air conditioning filters), apparel, diapers, linens, decorative textiles, industrial textiles, drapery, carpets, tents, sleeping bags, toys, wall coverings, mattresses, or upholstery.

[0081] Every day, many healthcare professionals are exposed to bacteria on their clothing. Furthermore, the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has forced, among other things, the use of disposable protective facial masks, which may be fully or partially replaced by washable textile facial masks.

[0082] The aqueous dispersions defined herein are therefore particularly applicable to medical textiles, such as facial masks.

[0083] As further shown in the accompanying examples, significant antibacterial effects were exerted by aqueous dispersions containing MgO alone or a combination of MgO and APP during the first 6 hours of testing (Figure 3A). A delayed increase in bacterial counts was then observed (Figure 3B), but was significantly lower in magnitude than the increase in bacterial counts observed in control measurements, demonstrating an overall bacteriostatic effect. Importantly, the observed bacteriostatic effect remained stable for the remainder of the assay time frame, i.e., up to 48 hours.

[0084] A similar effect was observed when textiles were inoculated with coliphage MS2, with aqueous dispersions containing MgO alone or a combination of MgO and APP demonstrating a significant antiviral effect during the first 4 hours of testing (Figure 2A). However, in this case, a steady further reduction in virus counts (antiviral effect) was observable throughout the entire time frame of the assay, up to 24 hours.

[0085] The above results demonstrate the durability of textiles coated with the aqueous dispersions defined herein containing MgO alone or in combination with APP to withstand multiple wash cycles, thereby allowing the use of bacteriostatic / virostatic and / or antibacterial / antiviral textile products for periods of 2 to 24 hours before subjecting the textile products to washing or sterilization.

[0086] The present invention is further described and illustrated by the following examples. [Example]

[0087] material The materials used to prepare the formulations (aqueous dispersions) in the following examples are listed in Table 1 (FR is an abbreviation for flame retardant):

[0088] [Table 1]

[0089] method Fabric Coating (Application): Fabric was treated by padding with the formulation (interchangeably referred to as "aqueous dispersion"). The padding was applied by using a padder (Rapid Horizontal Padding Mangle-Air-Pad) to impregnate both sides of the fabric, placing the formulation between the two rollers of the padder, and passing the fabric between the two rollers so that the formulation was absorbed into the fabric, and adjusting the pressure on the rollers to squeeze the fabric to the desired moisture content. Alternatively, the fabric was coated on only one side of the fabric by knife-over-roll back-coating. The coated fabrics were cured for 4 minutes at 160°C, washed 10 times, or alternatively washed 1, 20, 35, or 50 times as indicated below according to AATCC standard practice for home laundering at 60°C, bone dried, and tested according to AATCC Test Method 100-2019: "Antibacterial Finishes on Textile Materials," detailed below.

[0090] AATCC Test Method 100-2019: The AATCC 100 method is the textile industry standard for antimicrobial fabric performance in the United States and involves six key steps: fabric sample preparation (e.g., as detailed above), sterilization (e.g., by autoclaving at 1.2 atmospheres and 121°C for 20 minutes), and the addition of, e.g., 1 ml of microbial suspension to a 1 x 10 5The method consists of inoculation by applying CFU / ml to the fabric, incubation at 37°C for the required incubation period (e.g., from about 20 minutes to about 48 hours), washing / shaking by applying a neutralizing buffer to the fabric sample, collecting the neutralizing buffer and culture, and counting (colonies formed). The organisms were incubated under conditions favorable to obtain a clear indication of the antimicrobial properties of the test fabric.

[0091] Specifically, the test was performed as follows: Samples were prepared by padding fabric with the formulation (aqueous dispersion) detailed above, and the fabric was cut into 4.8 cm circles. The fabric samples were then sterilized by autoclaving, and then a 1 ml suspension of the microorganism to be tested (e.g., Escherichia virus MS2 (ATCC 15597), also known as coliphage MS2, Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538), and E. coli (ATCC 8739) was added to the fabric samples at a concentration of 1 × 10 for bacteria. 5 CFU / ml, and 1 x 10 for viruses 5 The PFU / ml were inoculated. The samples were then incubated at 37°C for different incubation (contact) times. Fabric samples at 0 hour and various other time points (e.g., 20 minutes, 1.5, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 24 hours) were washed with a neutralizing solution (20 ml of a general-purpose neutralizer prepared by mixing 3 g lecithin, 30 g Tween® 80, 7.84 g NaSO*5H0, 1 g histidine, 30 g saponin, 1 g tryptone, and 8.5 g NaCl in 1 liter of distilled water). The extracted microbial cultures were inoculated according to a method appropriate for the microorganism, specifically at 37°C for up to 48 hours.

[0092] Measurement of the average secondary particle size of magnesium oxide particles: The average secondary particle size of MgO was measured as follows: Approximately 0.15 g of sample was placed in a dry 50 ml beaker, approximately 20 ml of isopropanol was added as a dispersion medium, the mixture was stirred using a magnetic stirrer for approximately 10 to 15 seconds, and then dispersed for 3 minutes using an ultrasonic homogenizer (Elmasonic P). The particle size distribution was measured using a laser diffraction / scattering particle size distribution analyzer (Malvern Mastersizer 2000).

[0093] Citric Acid Activity (CAA 40): CAA 40 was measured as the time (seconds) required for 40% of a weighed amount of product to react with an equal amount of citric acid. For this purpose, 100 ml of 0.4 N citric acid and phenolphthalein were adjusted to 30°C. Magnesium oxide particles (2 gr sample) were added to the resulting solution, and the solution was stirred with a magnetic stirrer. The time (seconds) measured from the addition of magnesium oxide powder to the solution until the color of the test solution changed from colorless to pink was determined as the CAA value in seconds.

[0094] Surface area measurements: Surface area analysis was measured according to the BET method (based on the method by Brunauer, Emmett and Teller) using the multipoint BET method with a Quantachrome NOVA e2000 instrument.

[0095] Measurement of apparent density: The apparent density was measured by gently introducing the sample into a 250 ml container until the 250 ml mark was reached. The contents of the container were weighed. Apparent density (g / ml) = mass of sample in the container (gr): volume of the container (250 ml).

[0096] LOI (Loss on Ignition): The LOI test was carried out as follows: a weighed sample was calcined at 1000°C for 15 minutes. After cooling the sample in a desiccator, the sample was weighed again. The LOI was calculated by the following formula: [(initial sample weight - sample weight after calcination) / initial sample weight] x 100%.

[0097] TGA (Thermogravimetric Analysis): TGA, a method in which the mass of a sample is measured over time as the temperature changes, was performed using a TA discovery TGA 5500 instrument on 10 mg samples of the products being tested in disposable aluminum crucibles heated from room temperature to 600°C or 900°C at 10°C / min in an air or nitrogen environment, depending on the expected maximum thermal stability of the compound being tested.

[0098] Preparation 1 Preparation of various grades of magnesium oxide A) Preparation of magnesium oxide SIG / HA4 grade A magnesium chloride (MgCl2) solution with a concentration of 400-550 gr / l was roasted in a reactor at high temperatures (700-850°C), decomposing the magnesium chloride into magnesium oxide (MgO) and hydrochloric acid (HCl). The magnesium oxide (MgO) was hydrated to magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) at temperatures between 60-90°C. The magnesium hydroxide from the soluble salt was washed, crushed to the required particle size, and then fed to a kiln at high temperatures (600-950°C), where it decomposed into magnesium oxide and water. This MgO grade was named "SIG" (the term "SIG" refers to magnesium oxide derived from magnesium hydroxide and is characterized by an extremely low LOI, reflecting almost no hydroxide in the powder). The kiln was constructed with several levels, the temperature of each level being controlled separately, and the product (powder) was moved from one level to another using a stirrer. The rotation speed of the stirrer determines the residence time in each layer at a particular temperature in that layer. The analytical results of the SIG grade MgO sample are shown in Table 2 below.

[0099] [Table 2]

[0100] B) Preparation of magnesium oxide HA4 grade The SIG grade obtained according to the above process was ground in a dry grinding system (jet mill or pin mill) operating at a dry air pressure ranging from 2 to 4.5 atmospheres and a powder flow rate of 100 to 200 kg / hour. The jet mill was maintained under a slight negative pressure (close to zero pressure) to control particle size distribution, loss on ignition (LOI), and surface area. This grade was designated HA4. The analytical results obtained for the HA4 grade MgO sample are shown in Table 3 below.

[0101] [Table 3]

[0102] MgO HA4 grade has a d of less than 1.5 microns 10 (i.e., 10% of the particles are smaller than this size) and has a d in the range of 1.5 to 6.0 microns. 50 (i.e., 50% of the particles are smaller than this size) and has a d range of 8.0 to 45 microns. 90 (i.e., 90% of the particles are smaller than this size) and 5.0m 2 They are characterized by a specific BET surface area of ​​more than 1 / gr, a citric acid activity in the range of 25–200 s ( 40 ), a loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.2–4.0%, and a bulk density (untapped) of 0.25 gr / ml or more.

[0103] The analytical results obtained for the HA4 grade MgO sample (tested by TGA) are shown in Figures 1A and 1B. Figure 1A demonstrates that over a temperature range of 600°C, the sample weight was maintained at 99.276%, meaning that the residual magnesium hydroxide content was 0.724%. Figure 1B over a temperature range of 900°C shows a sample weight of 97.927%, meaning that the residual magnesium hydroxide content was 2.073%.

[0104] C) Preparation of Magnesium Oxide SIG-S Grade MgO SIG grade obtained according to the process of Example 1(A) was treated with steam. The resulting product was referred to as "SIG-S" grade.

[0105] D) Preparation of magnesium oxide SIG-SC grade MgO SIG grade obtained according to the process of Example 1(A) was treated with steam and carbon dioxide. The resulting product was referred to as "SIG-SC" grade.

[0106] Based on the analytical characteristics, the SIG-SC grade samples contained d particles ranging from 0.8 to 1.5 microns. 10 and d in the range of 2.6 to 6.0 microns. 50 and d in the range of 10.0 to 45 microns. 90 It features a range of 5.0 to 15.0 m 2 They are characterized by a surface area in the range of 100-200 gr / gr, a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 100-200 seconds, a loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 2.0-8.0%, and a bulk density (10 taps) in the range of 0.25-0.35 gr / ml.

[0107] Table 4 shows some of the properties of the various grades of MgO prepared according to Example 1 (A-D).

[0108] [Table 4]

[0109] E) Preparation of additional magnesium oxide grades Additional grades of magnesium oxide were prepared by varying kiln properties, such as time and temperature, to modify the particle size distribution, surface area, and reactivity of the magnesia particles. Additional examples of MgO grades tested were E-10A and RA-40 (periclase minerals), characterized by having 2-12% magnesium hydroxide and / or magnesium carbonate. The characteristics of the E-10A and RA-40 MgO grades are presented in Table 5 below.

[0110] The physical properties of the SIG grade MgO prepared as above, as well as commercially available E-10A and RA-40 MgO, are presented below in Table 5. Magnesium hydroxide samples are shown for reference.

[0111] [Table 5]

[0112] Preparation 2 Aqueous dispersion of magnesium oxide Aqueous dispersions of magnesium oxide were prepared using any of the above-prepared (or commercially available) MgO grades according to the following procedure: First, water was added. Then, a liquid dispersion medium (e.g., TERSPERSE 2735) was added to the water and stirred. The desired grade of MgO powder was gradually added with stirring, which continued for 30 minutes (dissolver IKA, 300-600 rpm). Next, an acrylic binder was added, and finally, a thickener (e.g., HEC QP-100MH) was added for viscosity modification, if necessary.

[0113] The compositions of two exemplary HA4-grade MgO aqueous suspensions prepared according to the above procedures, one for use on knit / woven fabrics and the other for use on nonwoven fabrics, are listed below in Tables 6 and 7, respectively.

[0114] [Table 6]

[0115] [Table 7] When fabric softener was added, it was at a final concentration of 2% by weight).

[0116] Preparation of aqueous dispersions containing various grades of MgO (e.g., SIG grade, E-10A, and RA-40) followed the procedures described above with specific amounts of ingredients as detailed, for example, in Table 6 above or indicated in the Examples that follow.

[0117] The water content in the dispersion was varied according to the absorbent capacity of the fabric type and the desired final add-on percentage in the fabric (approximately 2% to 20%). It is worth noting that diluted formulations are suitable for coated absorbent fabrics, while concentrated formulations are suitable for coated non-absorbent fabrics.

[0118] Preparation 3 Aqueous dispersion of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate (APP) Ammonium aluminum polyphosphate (also referred to herein as ammonium aluminum superphosphate or TexFRon® AG, 300 g) was added to a container previously charged with water (484.5 g), a dispersant (Disperbyk® 2010, 12 g), and a wetting agent (Supragil® WP, 1.2 g) under stirring at a speed of 300-600 RPM (using an IKA dissolver). The dispersion was kept under stirring for 15 minutes, and then an acrylic binder (AC-178, 150 g) was added. Finally, a thickener (hydroxyethyl cellulose, Cellosize HEC QP-100MH, 0.57 g) was added. Stirring was continued for another 30 minutes. The concentration of ammonium aluminum superphosphate in the dispersion was 31.6 wt%. The composition is shown below in Table 8.

[0119] [Table 8]

[0120] Preparation 4 Aqueous dispersion of MgO / APP A formulation containing both MgO powder and TexFRon® AG was prepared as detailed below. Water was added first. Then, the liquid dispersion medium (TERSPERSE 2735, 5.28 g) was added to the water and stirred at 300 rpm (using an IKA® dissolver). MgO powder (48 g) was gradually added with stirring, and stirring continued for 30 minutes. Then, the TexFRon® AG dispersion was added (40 g of a 40% solids dispersion containing the dispersion prepared as described in Table 8 above). Next, the acrylic binder (AC-178, 54.4 g) was added. Finally, the thickener (HEC QP-100MH, 1 g) was added. The amounts of each component are detailed in Table 9 below:

[0121] [Table 9]

[0122] The amount of binder was varied according to the desired application, for example, if wash durability was required, a higher amount of binder was used compared to if fabric softness was required, in which case a lower amount of binder was used.

[0123] Preparation 5 Aqueous dispersion of Mg(OH)2 (S-10 grade) As a reference, a dispersion of Mg(OH)2 (S-10 grade) in water was also prepared by adding an acrylic binder, surfactant, and polymeric thickener to the Mg(OH)2 slurry detailed below.

[0124] First, solid Mg(OH) (60 g, ICL-IP FR-S-10) was dispersed in 219 g of deionized water with 6.6 g of dispersant (Tersperse 2735, Huntsman), 15 g of 50% acrylic binder (AC-178, BG polymer), and 1 gr of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) QP-100MH (Dow). This dispersion was applied to a 50% polyester / cotton fabric.

[0125] Alternatively, solid Mg(OH) (60 g) was dispersed in deionized water (478 g) with a surfactant such as TERSPERSE 2735 (6.6 g), a 50% acrylic binder (e.g., AC-170, BGPolymer) (34 g), and a thickener (e.g., HEC, 2 g). This dispersion was padded onto a 100% cotton textile.

[0126] The compositions of the two dispersions prepared above (for coating 50% and 100% cotton fabric) are listed in Table 10.

[0127] [Table 10]

[0128] [Example 1] Antibacterial properties of fabrics coated with MgO HA4 alone or in combination with TexFRon® AG The goal of the study reported in this example was to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of a dispersion containing MgO HA4 grade alone applied to fabrics, and in parallel to evaluate the antimicrobial efficacy of a dispersion containing MgO HA4 grade in combination with APP (TexFRon® AG).

[0129] To this end, woven 12% nylon 66, 88% cotton 170 GSM samples were padded separately with one of the following dispersions (prepared as detailed above): a dispersion containing HA4 grade MgO (Preparation 1), a dispersion containing TexFRon® AG (Preparation 2), or a dispersion containing both agents (Preparation 3), as detailed above.

[0130] The samples are labeled 1A, 2A, and 3A, respectively, in Table 11 below to refer to the first experiment performed. Additional experiments are labeled "B," "C," etc.

[0131] The fabric was then subjected to AATCC Test Method 100-2019 as described above. Briefly, the fabric was cut into 4.8 cm circles, which were sterilized by autoclaving. The fabric circles were then inoculated with 1 ml of suspended bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli). At 0 hours and 24 hours, the circles were washed with neutralizing solution (20 ml of the general-purpose neutralizer detailed above), and the extracted bacteria were plated using the pour plate method using agar nutrient medium. The inoculated Petri dishes were incubated at 37°C for 48 hours.

[0132] Tables 11 and 12 below show the results of two experiments conducted as described above on two different fabric types: woven 12% nylon 66, 88% cotton 170 GSM (grams per square meter) and pocketed woven 12% nylon 66, 88% cotton 170 GSM.

[0133] [Table 11]

[0134] As can be seen from Table 11, bacterial counts increased by four orders of magnitude on the untreated fabric (control).

[0135] Magnesia had a bacteriostatic effect on fabric sample 1A treated with HA4 grade MgO, showing no change in bacterial count after 24 hours compared to time 0. Fabric sample 2A treated with TexFRon® AG showed a similar bacteriostatic effect. However, fabric sample 3A, which was treated with a combination of HA4 grade MgO and TexFRon® AG, exhibited a strong antibacterial effect, with the bacterial count decreasing by approximately three orders of magnitude after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0136] The results of additional tests obtained by coating a pocketed, woven 12% nylon 66, 88% cotton 170 GSM with HA4 grade MgO alone (labeled Sample 1B) or in combination with TexFRon® AG (labeled Sample 3B) and inoculating the fabric with bacteria are shown below in Table 12.

[0137] [Table 12]

[0138] As demonstrated in Table 12, the untreated fabric samples (the two control samples) showed an increase in bacterial counts of approximately four orders of magnitude.

[0139] In the labeled fabric sample 1B treated with HA4 grade MgO (at 7.6%), magnesia had a strong bacteriostatic effect and a low antibacterial effect, exhibiting an approximately one order of magnitude reduction in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0140] However, labeled fabric sample 3B, treated with a combination of HA4 grade MgO (at 5.9%) and TexFRon® AG (at 1.5%), exhibited a strong antibacterial effect, with bacterial counts reduced by approximately three orders of magnitude after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0141] The above results suggest that fabric coating with a dispersion containing a combination of HA4 grade MgO and TexFRon® AG provides antibacterial efficacy.

[0142] [Example 2] Antiviral properties of fabrics coated with HA4-grade MgO alone or in combination with TexFRon® AG The goal of the study reported in this example was to evaluate the antiviral effect of dispersions containing MgO HA4 grade alone or in combination with TexFRon® AG applied to fabrics.

[0143] To this end, a spunbond nonwoven 100% polypropylene 30 GSM was coated with a dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO alone (Preparation 1) or a dispersion containing a combination of HA4-grade MgO and TexFRon® AG (Preparation 3). The fabric was then subjected to AATCC Test Method 100-2019.

[0144] Briefly, the fabric was cut into 4.8 cm circles and sterilized by autoclaving. 1 ml of suspended coliphage MS2 (ATCC 15597) was inoculated onto the fabric circles. At 0 h and 1.5, 2, 3, 4, and 24 h, the circles were washed with neutralizing solution (20 ml of the general-purpose neutralizer detailed above), and the extracted coliphage was inoculated according to the overlay method (Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. 22nd Edition. American Public Health Association, American Water Works Association, Water Environment Federation, Sections: SM 9224C).

[0145] Table 13 below shows the results obtained in the above experiments. Samples treated with MgO and with MgO / APP dispersion are labeled 1C and 3C, respectively.

[0146] [Table 13]

[0147] As demonstrated in Table 13 above, virus counts remained at approximately the same level throughout the experiment in untreated fabric samples (controls), as expected.

[0148] A strong antiviral effect was observed for labeled fabric sample 1C treated with MgO (at 8.66%), exhibiting approximately a three-order of magnitude reduction in virus count after 24 hours compared to time 0. As can be seen from Table 13, the reduction in virus count over the measurement time period was gradual, and the antiviral effect was evident even after 24 hours of incubation.

[0149] Similar antiviral efficacy was demonstrated with labeled fabric sample 3C, which was treated with a combination of HA4 grade MgO (at 7%) and TexFRon® AG (at 0.7%).

[0150] The above results suggest that fabric coating with dispersions containing HA4 grade MgO or a combination of HA4 grade MgO and TexFRon® AG also provides antiviral efficacy.

[0151] The antiviral activity presented in Table 13 above is also presented graphically in Figure 2A, which shows the results obtained during the first 4 hours of the experiment, and in Figure 2B, which shows the results obtained throughout the 24 hour period of the experiment.

[0152] As shown in Figure 2A, coating the fabric with the dispersion containing MgO alone was slightly more efficient than using the dispersion containing both agents during the first 4 hours of the experiment, but over the longer term (i.e., the 24 hour experiment, Figure 2B), the dispersion containing MgO alone and the dispersion containing both MgO and TexFRon® AG exhibited comparable antiviral activity.

[0153] [Example 3] Duration of antibacterial effect of fabrics coated with HA4-grade MgO alone or in combination with TexFRon® AG Next, the antimicrobial efficacy of HA4-grade MgO coated fabrics was studied without and in the presence of TexFRon® AG for extended durations up to 48 hours.

[0154] To this end, spunbond nonwoven 100% polypropylene 30 GSM was padded with the dispersions detailed above. Briefly, the fabric was coated with a dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO alone (Formulation 1), a dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO alone in the presence of softener (Formulation 1S), or a dispersion containing both HA4-grade MgO and TexFRon® AG (Formulation 3), as detailed in Table 14 below.

[0155] Softeners are required in dispersions at higher add-on levels. In particular, the following assay tests whether adding softener to a dispersion has an effect on the antimicrobial activity of the dispersion.

[0156] The fabrics were tested according to the standard AATCC Test Method 100-2019 detailed above. Briefly, the coated fabrics were cut into 4.8 cm circles, sterilized by autoclaving, and the circles were then inoculated with 1 ml of suspended bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6538). At 0 hours, and after 15 minutes, 60 minutes, 2, 6, 24, and 48 hours, the circles were washed with neutralizing solution (20 ml) and the extracted bacteria were plated onto nutrient agar for 48 hours at 37°C. The results are shown in Table 14 below.

[0157] [Table 14]

[0158] As shown in Table 14, bacterial counts increased intermittently by approximately four orders of magnitude in the untreated fabric samples (controls) over the 48 hour period of the experiment.

[0159] Coating fabrics with a dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO (Sample 1D), a dispersion containing HA4-grade MgO and softener (Sample 1SD), or a dispersion containing both HA4-grade MgO and TexFRon® AG (Sample 3D) produced a strong bacteriostatic effect that was observed throughout the entire time frame tested, i.e., up to 48 hours.

[0160] Notably, after 6 hours, a moderate antibacterial effect was observed for all tested fabrics (i.e., samples 1D, 1SD, and 3D), with a reduction in bacterial counts of 1 to 2 orders of magnitude compared to time 0. The reduction in bacterial counts after 6 hours for the above samples is also presented graphically in Figure 3A, where only the control sample and samples 1D and 3D are shown.

[0161] As detailed above, softeners are required at higher add-on levels. The results presented above show that the addition of softeners does not impair the antimicrobial activity of the dispersion.

[0162] Furthermore, as shown in Table 14 and presented graphically in Figure 3B, bacterial counts increased slightly after 6 hours in the tested coated fabrics, but after 48 hours, a clear decrease in bacterial counts was observed (4-5 orders of magnitude) compared to the control sample, suggesting that the bacteriostatic effect was stable throughout the tested time frame.

[0163] The above examples show that fabrics coated as detailed above exhibit strong antimicrobial properties for up to 6 hours and can therefore be used for at least 6 hours before being washed or sterilized.

[0164] [Example 4] Effect of multiple washing cycles on the antibacterial activity of MgO dispersions on fabrics The effect of multiple washing cycles was further examined on fabrics coated with HA4-grade MgO dispersions. To this end, three different HA4-grade MgO aqueous dispersions were prepared according to the method described above, each containing a different binder: AC-178, AC-2403, or AC-75032. The compositions of the prepared aqueous dispersions are detailed in Table 6 above.

[0165] The above dispersions were padded (separately) onto polyamide-Lycra samples as detailed above. After coating with the various MgO dispersions, the fabric samples were cured at 160°C for 4 minutes, washed 10, 20, 35 or 50 times, dried and tested according to AATCC Test Method 100-2019 as described above.

[0166] Briefly, the fabric was cut into 4.8 cm circles, sterilized by autoclaving, and inoculated with 1 ml of suspended bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6538). At 0 hours, and after 2, 5, and 24 hours, the circles were washed with neutralizing solution (20 ml) and the extracted bacteria were plated onto nutrient agar for 48 hours at 37°C. Table 15 below shows the results of the above experiment.

[0167] [Table 15]

[0168] As shown in Table 15 above, and similar to observations in previous examples, an increase in bacterial counts was observed without the MgO coating (specifically, a four order of magnitude increase).

[0169] Surprisingly, in the presence of MgO dispersions containing various binder types, i.e., AC-178, AC-2403, and AC-75032, shown in Figures 4A, 4B, and 4C, respectively, a one- to two-order reduction in bacterial counts was observed after 5 hours of incubation, evidence of an antibacterial effect. From that time onward and until the end of the experiment, bacterial counts gradually increased, but in each case were at least two orders of magnitude lower than those observed in the control measurements.

[0170] Analysis of bacterial counts obtained with various dispersions under different washing conditions of 10, 20, 35, and 50 cycles indicates that there is a modest effect of the number of wash cycles applied to the coated fabric. For example, when AC-178 or AC-2403 binders were used, there was a benefit for 10 or 20 wash cycles, as shown in Figures 4A and 4B, respectively, and when AC-75032 binder was used, there was a benefit for 20 wash cycles, as shown in Figure 4C.

[0171] Surprisingly, as shown in Figure 4C, when analyzing the bacterial counts obtained after a 24-hour incubation period, regardless of the number of washing cycles applied to the fabric samples, the dispersion containing AC-75032 binder had an advantage over the other binders used.

[0172] Furthermore, clear bacteriostatic and moderate antibacterial effects were demonstrated for all types of dispersions used at all time points, even after subjecting fabric samples to 50 washing cycles, and with respect to control measurements, these effects being particularly pronounced after a 5-hour incubation period.

[0173] Without wishing to be bound by theory, small variations in the MgO add-on percentage of the total fabric weight did not affect the antibacterial or bacteriostatic activity of the MgO dispersion.

[0174] [Example 5] (Reference Example) Antimicrobial activity of Mg(OH)2-impregnated textiles The use of aqueous dispersions containing various concentrations of Mg(OH)2 as an antimicrobial finish on textiles was further investigated as a reference. Two types of textiles were used: 50% / 50% polyester / cotton 175 g / m 2 and 100% cotton 200g / m 2 .

[0175] Fabrics were first coated with diluted (with water) Mg(OH) dispersions prepared as described above to obtain the required final (add-on) percentage of Mg(OH) and cured at 160°C for 4 minutes. Pading the fabrics with the various dispersions resulted in several fabrics with different total solids and Mg(OH) percentages. The percentage of total solids, also referred to herein as the "add-on" percentage, and of Mg(OH) deposited on the textile samples are shown below in Table 16 for both the 50 / 50 and 100% cotton fabrics.

[0176] [Table 16]

[0177] The two fabric types were then subjected to AATCC test method 100-2019 as described above by inoculating the fabrics with Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538).

[0178] For both fabric types, the percentage of bacterial reduction increased as the amount of Mg(OH)2 in the fabric increased. In the case of the 50% / 50% polyester / cotton fabric, the percentage of bacterial reduction increased from 0 at a 2.36% Mg(OH)2 content to 83.4% reduction at a 8.9% Mg(OH)2 content, as shown in Table 17 below. A half order of magnitude increase in bacterial growth was observed for the control fabric (data not shown).

[0179] [Table 17]

[0180] For the same fabric type, padding with an additional dispersion containing Mg(OH)2 reduced the bacterial count as seen in Table 18:

[0181] [Table 18]

[0182] Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of 100% cotton knit fabric padded with dispersions containing Mg(OH) after five washing machine cycles is shown in Table 19:

[0183] [Table 19]

[0184] Further experiments performed on 100% cotton fabrics padded with dispersions containing Mg(OH)2 after several washing machine cycles, the results of which are shown in Table 20 below, showed that the percentage of bacterial reduction increased from 75.4% at a 4.3% Mg(OH)2 content in the textile to 98.9% reduction at a 12.8% Mg(OH)2 content in the textile. In contrast, the control fabric samples showed a double order of magnitude increase in bacterial counts.

[0185] [Table 20]

[0186] [Example 6] Antibacterial activity of different magnesium oxide compound coatings on 100% cotton knits Next, the antibacterial activity of aqueous dispersions containing different grades of magnesium oxide coated on 100% cotton knitwear was examined against Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538). The antibacterial activity of fabric coating with aqueous dispersions containing Mg(OH)2 was also determined as a reference.

[0187] First, different aqueous dispersions of Mg(OH)2 or MgO (60 g each) were prepared generally as described above (Table 6), with MgO grades SIG, E-10A, and RA-40, and Mg(OH)2 grades S-10, HD-5, and HD-12.

[0188] These dispersions were padded onto 100% cotton textiles and the fabrics were cured at 160°C for 4 minutes. The percentage of Mg(OH)2 / MgO deposited on the textile samples was 5%-10%, as detailed in Table 21 below. The antimicrobial activity of the tested fabrics was examined without washing the coated and cured fabrics or after five washing machine cycles. The results are presented in Table 21 below.

[0189] [Table 21]

[0190] Review of Table 21 first reveals that the antimicrobial efficacy of all MgO grades was superior compared to that of the Mg(OH)2 grade. Of the three MgO grades tested, the aqueous dispersion containing the MgO SIG grade was found to have the highest efficacy against the bacteria tested.

[0191] Furthermore, in most cases, washing the fabric does not have any significant effect on the properties of the fabric after the coating step.

[0192] To evaluate the effect of magnesia dispersion stability on bacterial activity, fabrics were padded with magnesia dispersion immediately and after leaving it (i.e., magnesia dispersion) for 1 week. No significant difference in antimicrobial activity of fabrics was observed for both treated fabrics (data not shown).

[0193] [Example 7] Antibacterial activity of commercial products As a separate reference, the tests were repeated with commercially available antibacterial socks and kitchen rugs (Table 22). Briefly, the antibacterial socks and kitchen rugs detailed in Table 22 below were inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus using the method detailed above for the magnesia-coated fabric. As demonstrated by the results presented in Table 22 below, only the active ingredient triclosan (in the "Ultra-Fresh NM-V2" kitchen rug) had antibacterial activity similar to that of MgO.

[0194] [Table 22]

[0195] As an additional reference, the tests were repeated with commercial fabrics containing zinc oxide or copper, which are used, among other things, to prepare facial masks. These fabrics were compared with a 30 GSM spunbond nonwoven polypropylene padded with the MgO-containing dispersion prepared as described above.

[0196] The results of the ATCC tests conducted in the presence of coliphage MS2 are shown below in Table 23. As can be seen from Table 23 below, spunbond nonwoven polypropylene 30 GSM padded with a dispersion containing MgO was highly effective in reducing virus counts after 24 hours of incubation when compared to the control or commercial zinc oxide based mask or copper based (nonwoven) mask.

[0197] [Table 23]

[0198] [Example 8] Antibacterial activity of dispersions containing different grades of magnesia coated on 65% polyester 35% cotton fabric In addition to the experimental results shown above, textile formulations of various MgO grades (i.e., HA4, SIG-S and SIG-SC MgO grades prepared as detailed above) were prepared using AC2403 (binder) and HEC (thickener) at 27.2 and 1.44 gr, respectively, in the preparation of the dispersions shown above in Table 6. The dispersions were mixed for 2 hours.

[0199] The dispersions detailed above containing HA4, SIG-S or SIG-SC, or the dispersions containing HA4, SIG-S or SIG-SC diluted two-fold with water, were then applied to a 65% polyester, 35% cotton, 200gr / m 2 Padded with cloth.

[0200] The fabrics were tested for antimicrobial activity using the ATCC 100-2004 method detailed above. Briefly, the fabrics were cut into 4.8 cm diameter samples and sterilized by autoclaving. Two samples for each tested fabric were then inoculated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteria (2 ml, ATCC 6538). Samples were tested at time 0 and after 24 hours of incubation. At these times, neutralizer (20 ml) was added, and the samples were plated on agar plates and incubated at 37°C for 48 hours. The results are summarized below in Table 24.

[0201] [Table 24]

[0202] As shown in Table 24, the bacterial count increased by three orders of magnitude on fabrics not treated with MgO.

[0203] Fabric samples treated with HA4 grade of MgO (to obtain percentages of 7.35% and 3.71% in the fabric) and SIG-S grade MgO (to obtain percentages of 5.05% in the fabric) demonstrated that magnesia had a strong bacteriostatic effect, exhibiting no change in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0204] Fabric samples treated with SIG-S and SIG-SC grade MgO (at final percentages of 9.36% and 8.76%, respectively) showed strong biostatic and moderate antibacterial effects, exhibiting an order of magnitude reduction in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0205] Surprisingly, fabric samples treated with SIG-SC grade MgO (at a final percentage of 4.31%) showed a strong antibacterial effect, exhibiting a four-order of magnitude reduction in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0206] [Example 9] Antibacterial activity of dispersions containing HA4 grade MgO coating a single surface of nonwoven 100% polypropylene fabric The antimicrobial efficacy of dispersions containing HA4 grade MgO to achieve total add-on percentages of 10.0% and 10.4% was then tested. Dispersions were prepared as detailed above (Table 6).

[0207] In this example, the dispersion was applied to only one surface of the fabric (by backcoating, and the surfaces are referred to as surface "A" or "B," i.e., only surface A or only surface B), and the antimicrobial efficacy of the treated fabrics was compared. Table 25 below shows the results of these experiments.

[0208] [Table 25]

[0209] As shown in Table 25, a two-order of magnitude increase in bacterial counts was observed in fabric samples not treated with magnesia (control).

[0210] Fabric samples treated with HA4 grade MgO at add-on percentages of 10.0% or 10.4% showed that magnesia has a strong bacteriostatic effect, exhibiting no change in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0211] Furthermore, it was found that the bacteriostatic effect obtained when the dispersion was padded onto surface A was similar to the bacteriostatic effect obtained when the dispersion was padded onto surface B for both types of dispersion tested, meaning that the magnesia migrated through the fabric and reached both sides.

[0212] Similar results were obtained with 100% polypropylene fabric samples that were coated on one side with MgO HA4 grade dispersion prepared as detailed above (i.e., total add-on percentage of 10.0% or 10.4%) and inoculated with E. coli. Table 26 below shows the results of these experiments.

[0213] [Table 26]

[0214] As can be seen from Table 26, a four order of magnitude increase in bacterial count was observed in fabrics not treated with magnesia (control).

[0215] On the contrary, all fabric samples treated with HA4 grade MgO showed relatively little change in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0, indicating that magnesia had a bacteriostatic effect.

[0216] Furthermore, it was found that both sides of the fabric exhibited bacteriostatic effects regardless of which side the magnesia was applied to, thus implying that the magnesia migrated through the fabric and reached both sides.

[0217] [Example 10] Effect of varying the percentage of MgO in fabric on the antibacterial activity of fabric coated with HA4 grade MgO dispersion Finally, the antimicrobial efficacy of aqueous dispersions containing HA4 grade MgO coating nonwoven 100% polyester fabrics was tested against Staphylococcus aureus, with varying percentages of MgO in the fabric. To this end, dispersions prepared as detailed in Table 7 above were prepared and diluted.

[0218] [Table 27]

[0219] As can be seen from Table 27, a three order of magnitude increase in bacterial count was observed in fabrics not treated with magnesia (ie, the control sample).

[0220] In contrast, fabric samples treated with HA4 grade MgO to obtain typical add-on percentages of 7.34%, 7.30% and 6.80% showed that magnesia has a bacteriostatic effect, exhibiting relatively little change in bacterial counts after 24 hours compared to time 0.

[0221] Importantly, the dispersion was applied to a fabric sample and the results are noted in the bottom row of Table 27, consisting of all of the formulation ingredients, i.e., binder, surfactant, thickener, and water, but without the addition of magnesia alone. The three order of magnitude increase in bacterial count observed on this fabric sample indicates that magnesia particles are essential for bacteriostatic or bactericidal activity.

[0222] While the invention has been described using some specific examples, many modifications and variations are possible, and it is understood, therefore, that the invention is not intended to be limited in any way except as by the appended claims. Various embodiments of the present invention are described below. 1. A composition comprising magnesium oxide, a surfactant and a thickener. 2. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm. 10 , d in the range of 1.5 μm to 6.0 μm 50 , and d in the range of 5.0 μm to 45.0 μm 90 and the magnesium oxide has a particle size distribution having a) 5.0 to 25.0 m 2 Surface area in the range of / gr, b) Loss on ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.2% to 8.0% c) a bulk density in the range of 0.25-0.50 gr / ml, and d) Citric acid activity (CAA 40) in the range of 25-200 seconds 2. The composition of claim 1, further characterized by having: 3. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 1.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 5.0 to 45 μm. 90 、5.0~25.0m 2 3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a surface area in the range of 0.2-5.0% / gr, a bulk density in the range of 0.30-0.50gr / ml, and a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 80-200 seconds. 4. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.8 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 10.0 to 45 μm. 90 、5.0~15.0m 2 3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a surface area in the range of 0.25-0.35 gr / ml, an LOI in the range of 2.0-8.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.25-0.35 gr / ml, and a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 100-200 seconds. 5. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 1.0 to 1.5 μm. 10 and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. 50 and d in the range of 10.0 to 45.0 μm. 90 、5.0~10.0m 2 3. The composition according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by a surface area in the range of / gr, an LOI in the range of 0.2-6.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.3-0.5gr / ml, and characterized by a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 100-200 seconds. 6. An antiviral and / or antibacterial textile finish aqueous dispersion comprising the composition according to any one of 1 to 5 above, and optionally a binder. 7.67 to 90% by weight of water; 2 to 20 wt. % MgO, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant, and 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of a thickener 7. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to claim 6, comprising: 8. An aqueous textile finish dispersion according to claim 6 or 7, comprising a binder. 9. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to claim 8, comprising 1.5 to 15 wt. % of a binder. 10. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to claim 6, further comprising ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, and optionally a binder. 11. The aqueous textile finish dispersion according to claim 10, wherein the ammonium polyphosphate is ammonium aluminum polyphosphate. 12.37 to 94% by weight of water; 5 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate; 0.5 to 4 wt. % of a surfactant, and 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of a thickener 12. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to claim 11, comprising: 13. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising a binder. 14. The textile finish aqueous dispersion according to claim 13, comprising 1.5 to 15 wt. % of a binder. 15. A composition according to any one of 1 to 5 above, or an aqueous textile finishing dispersion according to any one of 6 to 14 above, wherein the surfactant is an anionic surfactant or a nonionic surfactant. 16. A composition according to any one of claims 1 to 5, or an aqueous textile finishing dispersion according to any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the thickener is a cellulose derivative or an expandable synthetic polymer. 17. A textile finish aqueous dispersion according to any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the binder is an acrylate, polyurethane or PVC binder. 18. A method of finishing or treating a textile product with an antiviral and / or antibacterial aqueous dispersion according to any one of claims 6 to 17 above, wherein a binder is present in the dispersion. 19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the textile product is provided with virus-static or virus-antiviral properties. 20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the textile product is provided with virustatic or antiviral properties against viruses of the Coronaviridae family. 21. The method according to claim 18, wherein the textile product is provided with bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties. 22. The method according to claim 21, wherein the textile product is provided with bacteriostatic or antibacterial properties against bacteria associated with hospital-acquired infections. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the nosocomial infection is associated with Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli, or a combination thereof. 24. A method according to any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein the textile product is a medical textile product, a facial mask or a cloth filter. 25. Use of magnesium oxide as at least one of a virostatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial textile finishing agent. 26. Use of magnesium oxide in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate as at least one of a virustatic, antiviral, bacteriostatic or antibacterial textile finishing agent. 27. A textile product coated with an antiviral or antibacterial finish comprising magnesium oxide, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of said textile product. 28. A textile product coated with an antiviral or antibacterial finish comprising magnesium oxide in combination with ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product and the amount of ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate is at least 0.5% by weight of the textile product. 29. The textile product according to claim 27 or 28, wherein the textile product is a medical textile product, a facial mask or a cloth filter.

Claims

1. 67 to 90% by weight of water, 2 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of an anionic polymeric surfactant, and 0.1 to 0.5% by weight of hydroxyethyl cellulose thickener and optionally a binder.

2. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm １０ , d in the range of 1.5 μm to 6.0 μm ５０ , and d in the range of 5.0 μm to 45.0 μm ９０ and the magnesium oxide has a particle size distribution having a) 5.0-25.0m ２ / gr range of surface area, b) Loss on Ignition (LOI) in the range of 0.2% to 8.0% c) a bulk density in the range of 0.25 to 0.50 gr / ml; and d) Citric acid activity (CAA 40) in the range of 25-200 seconds 10. The composition of claim 1 further characterized by having:

3. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.5 to 1.5 μm １０ and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 1.5 to 6.0 μm. ５０ and d in the range of 5.0 to 45 μm. ９０ , 5.0-25.0m ２ 3. The composition of claim 1 or 2, characterized by a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 5.0%; a bulk density in the range of 0.30 to 0.50 gr / ml; and a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 80 to 200 seconds.

4. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 0.8 to 1.5 μm. １０ and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. ５０ and d in the range of 10.0 to 45 μm. ９０ , 5.0-15.0m ２ 3. The composition of claim 1, characterized by a surface area in the range of 0.25 to 0.35 gr / ml, a LOI in the range of 2.0 to 8.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.25 to 0.35 gr / ml, and a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 100 to 200 seconds.

5. The magnesium oxide has a d in the range of 1.0 to 1.5 μm. １０ and a particle size distribution having a d in the range of 2.5 to 6.0 μm. ５０ and d in the range of 10.0 to 45.0 μm. ９０ ,5.0~10.0m ２ 3. The composition of claim 1 or 2, characterized by a surface area in the range of 0.2 to 6.0% / gr, a LOI in the range of 0.2 to 6.0%, a bulk density in the range of 0.3 to 0.5 gr / ml, and characterized by a citric acid activity (40) in the range of 100 to 200 seconds.

6. 6. An antiviral and / or antibacterial textile finish aqueous dispersion comprising the composition of any one of claims 1 to 5, and further comprising an acrylate binder.

7. 7. The aqueous textile finish dispersion of claim 6, comprising 1.5 to 15% by weight of an acrylate binder.

8. 7. The textile finish aqueous dispersion of claim 6, further comprising ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate.

9. 9. The aqueous textile finish dispersion of claim 8, wherein the ammonium polyphosphate is ammonium aluminum polyphosphate.

10. 67 to 90% by weight of water, 5 to 20% by weight of magnesium oxide, 0.5 to 4% by weight of ammonium aluminum polyphosphate, 0.5 to 4 wt. % of an anionic polymeric surfactant; 0.1 to 0.5 wt. % of a hydroxyethyl cellulose thickener, and acrylate binder 10. The textile finish aqueous dispersion of claim 9, comprising:

11. 11. The aqueous textile finish dispersion of claim 10, comprising 1.5 to 15 wt. % of an acrylate binder.

12. 12. A method of finishing or treating a textile product with an antiviral and / or antibacterial aqueous dispersion according to any one of claims 6 to 11.

13. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the textile product is rendered virustatic or antiviral.

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the textile product is rendered virustatic or antiviral against viruses of the Coronaviridae family.

15. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the textile product is rendered bacteriostatic or antibacterial.

16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the textile product is rendered bacteriostatic or antibacterial against bacteria associated with hospital-acquired infections.

17. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the hospital-acquired infection is associated with Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli, or a combination thereof.

18. 18. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 17, wherein the textile product is a medical textile product, a facial mask or a cloth filter.

19. 1. A textile product coated with an antiviral or antibacterial finish comprising magnesium oxide, an anionic polymeric surfactant, a hydroxyethyl cellulose thickener, and an acrylate binder, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product.

20. 20. The textile product of claim 19, further comprising ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate, wherein the amount of MgO is at least 2% by weight of the textile product and the amount of ammonium phosphate or ammonium polyphosphate is at least 0.5% by weight of the textile product.

21. 21. The textile product of claim 19 or 20, wherein the amount of total dry weight added to the fabric is between 2% and 20% by weight of the textile product.

22. The textile product according to any one of claims 19 to 21, wherein the textile product is a medical textile product, a facial mask or a fabric filter.

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