Method for the antibacterial treatment of an item or product of daily or frequent use

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for the antibacterial treatment of footwear, footwear parts and materials intended for the production of footwear or portions thereof.

Description

[0001] METHOD FOR THE ANTIBACTERIAL TREATMENT OF AN ITEM OR PRODUCT OF DAILY OR FREQUENT USE

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] The formation of unpleasant odors inside shoes is a common problem which affects millions of people around the world. This phenomenon is mainly caused by the proliferation of bacteria and fungi which develop in humid and hot environments, such as those present inside footwear . The sweating of feet, combined with poor ventilation, creates a fertile ground for the growth of microorganisms such as "Brevibacterium" and "Corynebacterium" and various strains of fungi, which feed on dead skin cells and sweat secretions (endogenous factors) . The digestion of these organic compounds by bacteria and fungi releases volatile substances, such as fatty acids and amines, which are responsible for intense and unpleasant odors .

[0004] In addition to the annoyance of the smell, the presence of these microorganisms can lead to the development of foot diseases : fungal infections such as tinea pedis or onychomycosis (of the nails) . Bacterial proliferation can also trigger skin infections, with the formation of blisters, inflammation and swelling. Diseases such as bromhidrosis , which causes an intense and persistent smell of sweat, are closely related to the presence of bacteria which break sweat down into odorous compounds .

[0005] Some types of footwear, such as healthcare footwear, mainly used in hospital, clinical and rehabilitation environments, are exposed to even more significant risks also related to thespread of patient body humors, such as sweat, secretions and biological fluids . In healthcare settings, where patients ' vulnerability is already increased due to pre-existing conditions, surgeries or intensive treatments, footwear contamination can be a dangerous route of transmission, contributing to the spread of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, such as Clostridium difficile or multidrug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus. The dramatic consequences of poor hygiene in sanitary footwear are not only limited to patient health, but can extend to the entire healthcare environment, with possible nosocomial epidemics involving debilitated patients and medical personnel .

[0006] Another aspect related to environmental contamination and hygiene is related to the mixed use of footwear indoors and outdoors . Footwear which comes into contact with often polluted external surfaces easily transports pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and dirt, inside closed environments . This phenomenon can pose a significant risk for the spread of infections, especially in places where the population is vulnerable, such as nursing homes, schools and private homes .

[0007] In recent years, several technologies have been developed to try to solve the problem of foot odors and infections caused by bacteria and fungi . These solutions comprise :

[0008] ( 1 ) Antibacterial and antifungal sprays formulated to eliminate or reduce the proliferation of bacteria and fungiinside shoes and on feet . Some sprays contain ingredients such as sodium bicarbonate, denatured ethyl alcohol (SD) , and odorcovering fragrances, while others are enriched with antifungal agents such as clotrimazole or miconazole . Although effective, these sprays offer limited protection and require regular application .

[0009] (2 ) Absorbent powders containing ingredients such as talc and baking soda are widely used to keep feet dry and reduce sweating. These powders act by absorbing moisture and reducing the proliferation of bacteria and fungi . However, they do not directly fight fungal or bacterial infections . Furthermore, the effectiveness of the powder depends on the application amount and frequency.

[0010] (3) Insoles impregnated with antibacterial agents, such as active carbon or triclosan, are designed to kill bacteria and keep shoes cool . Some advanced models also feature long-lasting antifungal and antibacterial technologies . Insoles can be useful in reducing odors and improving hygiene inside shoes, but they do not always completely eliminate the problem of fungal or bacterial infections, especially if they are not changed regularly.

[0011] (4 ) Innovative materials for footwear . Today, many companies are developing shoes with integrated antibacterial and antifungal materials, such as fabrics treated with silver ions or with zinc, magnesium or copper particles . These materials prevent the proliferation of bacteria and fungidirectly inside shoes . However, it is a generally expensive application, not capable of offering long-term protection.

[0012] Unfortunately, with regard to the problem of environmental contamination (exogenous factors) , the solutions are limited to the adoption of disinfectant mats or cleaning stations at the entrance of healthcare facilities or high-risk places, which allow shoes to be sanitized before accessing sensitive areas . Alternatively, it may be useful to follow the good practice of separating the footwear used in outdoor environments from those intended for indoor environments . This approach involves the use of shoes for each environment, helps to limit the transfer of contaminants, but is impractical and organizationally complex .

[0013] Therefore, there is a need to develop innovative methods for treating footwear and parts thereof, which meets the above needs .

[0014] Summary of the invention

[0015] The inventors of the present patent application have surprisingly developed a method for treating footwear and other products and items, which prevents and counteracts bacterial development and proliferation in the face of repeated use and contact by a user .

[0016] Brief description of the figures

[0017] Figure 1 - 3. Results on LIGHT EVA samples;

[0018] Figure 4 - 6. Results on DENSE EVA samples;

[0019] Figure 7 - 9. Results on RUBBER samples;

[0020] Figure 10 - 12. Results on TPU samples;Figure 13 - 15. Results on SOFT MICROLITE samples;

[0021] Figure 16 - 18. Results on HARD MICROLITE samples;

[0022] Figure 19 - 21. Results on LEATHER samples .

[0023] Figure 22. Mono-material EVA slippers used for testing. The left slipper of each pair was treated with the method of the invention, the right was left original without any treatment . Figure 23. Results related to Example 5a for 5 WEEKS - Gram negative presence evaluation.

[0024] Figure 24 . Results related to Example 5a for 5 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0025] Figure 25. Results related to Example 5a for 10 WEEKS - Gram negative presence evaluation.

[0026] Figure 26. Results related to Example 5a for 10 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0027] Figure 27. Results related to Example 8b for 5 WEEKS - Gram negative presence evaluation.

[0028] Figure 28. Results related to Example 8b for 5 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0029] Figure 29. Results related to Example 8b for 10 WEEKS - Gram negative presence evaluation.

[0030] Figure 30. Results related to Example 8b for 10 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0031] Obj ect of the invention

[0032] In a first obj ect, the present invention describes a method for treating footwear or a part of footwear or a material intended for the production of footwear or a partthereof, such as to impart antimicrobial properties to said footwear, footwear part or material .

[0033] In a second obj ect, the present invention describes footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, to which antimicrobial properties have been imparted.

[0034] In a third obj ect, the present invention describes a method for treating items or products of daily or otherwise frequent use such as to impart antimicrobial properties .

[0035] Such items or products include : leather items and equivalent products made of synthetic material .

[0036] Such items or products include : hats and head coverings in general, interior of helmets for vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, sports or work activities .

[0037] Such items or products also include : purses, bags, handbags, suitcases, briefcases, backpacks, trunks, luggage racks .

[0038] Such items or products also include : motorcycle saddles, bicycle saddles .

[0039] Such items or products also include : sporting items or parts thereof, such as glasses, goggles, mask, mouthpiece, wetsuit, under-wetsuit .

[0040] Detailed description of the invention

[0041] In accordance with a first obj ect, the present invention describes a method for treating footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a partthereof, such as to impart antimicrobial properties to said footwear, footwear part or material .

[0042] In particular, said footwear is selected in the group comprising :

[0043] - dress shoes : Oxfords, Derbies, moccasins, brogues, monk straps, pumps, Chanel, slingbacks, open-toed, booties, ankle boots, flats, sandals, desert boots, combat boots, boots, winklepickers or pike shoes;

[0044] - casual shoes : sneakers, slip-ons, espadrilles, flip-flops, slippers, sandals, Zori, Okobo;

[0045] - sports shoes : running shoes, hiking shoes, hiking boots, climbing boots, soccer cleats, basketball shoes, tennis shoes, athletic shoes, golf shoes, cycling shoes, gymnastics shoes, climbing shoes, ski boots, after-ski boots, rain boots, dance shoes, pool slippers, pool flip-flops, beach sandals, gaiters, fins ;

[0046] - professional shoes and footwear : safety shoes, clogs for healthcare and / or public environments , waterproof shoes and boots, sandals, gaiters;

[0047] home footwear : slippers, clogs, flip-flops, sandals, booties ;

[0048] As regards the parts of footwear, this can be selected from the group comprising:

[0049] - outer part of the shoe, comprising: upper, tip, toe cap, cap, broguing, mesh inserts, sole template, quarters, tongue (outer surface, front part, lining and foam) , flap, spur, heel, counter, lace catch, strap;- structural part : shank, padding;

[0050] - part of the inner lining of the shoe, comprising: inner lining, removable and non-removable liner, insole, underpad, footbed; from the heel : heel tab, counter, collar, inflatables; - lower portion closer to the ground: sole, midsole, tread, strobel, midfoot, heel, sole edge, and portions thereof ;

[0051] - seams, fastenings, strings, laces, hook and loop closure system.

[0052] In particular, said material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof is selected in the group comprising natural materials and synthetic materials .

[0053] Natural materials comprise :

[0054] - leather and hide (bovine, goat, sheep, other animals) ; - natural fiber fabrics and non-woven fabrics : cotton, hemp, linen, wool, felt;

[0055] - wood;

[0056] - cork;

[0057] - natural rubber, possibly vulcanized, nitrile rubber; faux-leather materials obtained from plant raw materials (apple) or from mushrooms .

[0058] Synthetic materials comprise :

[0059] polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, nylon;

[0060] In particular, the lower portion can be made of natural materials :

[0061] leather and hide;

[0062] rope and natural fibers;

[0063] cork;wood;

[0064] rubber, possibly vulcanized, nitrile rubber; microporous;

[0065] or of synthetic materials :

[0066] - EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) , EVAPU / rubber , EVA / rubber;

[0067] TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) , bi-component polyurethanes such as polyether or polyester-based PUR, double-density polyurethane;

[0068] - polyacrylates;

[0069] - PVC;

[0070] - PRU (combination of rubber and polyurethane) ;

[0071] - technical foams (Boost, Zoom, Gel) ;

[0072] - TR (thermoplastic rubbers) , based on styrene-butadiene-styrene ( SBS ) ;

[0073] - polymers and foams based on polyethylene and olefin copolymers, chloropolymers, polyamides and silicones;

[0074] - composite materials divided into various categories, including: PMC ( Polymer-Matrix Composite) , for example thermoplastics (such as nylon and ABS) or thermosets (such as epoxy resins) ; MMC (Metallic-Matrix Composite) , generally aluminum, or titanium and alloys thereof, more rarely magnesium or others; CMC (Ceramic-Matrix Composite) generally silicon carbide alumina or microlite;

[0075] carbon-carbon composites (both the matrix and the reinforcement consist of carbon) ; hybrid composites : contain two or more types of fibers . In the composite polymer matrix materials, for example, epoxy resins (the same used in someadhesives ) or phenolic resins , possibly added with other polymers ( e . g . , PVB ) which contribute to improving the mechanical properties ( e . g . , flexibility) of the composite material while maintaining adhesion to the reinforcement , can be used as a matrix .

[0076] In particular, said antimicrobial properties are exerted against bacteria, yeasts , viruses .

[0077] Bacteria comprise Gram positives selected in the group comprising : Corynebacteria (C . diphtheriae , C . fascians , C . piogens , C . simplex, C . malli , C . ulcerans , C . pseudotuberculosis , C . pyogenes , C . haemolyticum, C . glutamicum, C . aquaticum, C . pseudodiptheriticum, C . urealyticum, C . equi , C . bovis , C . xerosis , C . amycolatum, C . j eikeiun, C . striatum, C . tenuis e C . glucoronolyticum) , S taphi lococcus ( S . arlettae, S . aureus , S . auricularis , S . capitis , S . caseolyticus , S . chromogenes , S . cohnii , S . epidermidis , S . haemolyticus , S . hominis , S . hyicus , S . intermedius , S . lactis , S . lentis , S . pseudintermedius ) , Cutibacteria ( C . acnes ) , Actinobacteria (Acidimicrobidae , Actinobacteridae , Coriobacteridae , Rubrobacteridae , Sphaerobacteridae ) , Actinomyces (A. dentalis , A. denticolens , A. europaeus , A. humi ferus , A. hyovaginalis , A. israelii , A. marimammalium, A. nasicola, A. odontolyticus , A. streptomycini , A. suimasti tidis , A. turicensis , A. urogenitalis , A. vaccimaxillae ) , Arthrobacter, Bifidobacterium (B . actinocolonii forme , B . adolescentis , B . aerophilum, B . aesculapii , B . bi fidum, B . commune , B . coryneforme , B .crudilactis , B . denticolens , B . dentium, B . faecale , B . infantis , B . italicum, B . lactis , B . saguini , B . thermacidophilum, B . thermophilum, B . tissieri ) , Frankia ( F . alni ) , Micrococcus (M . agilis , M . endophyticus , M . flavus , M . lactis , M . luteus , M . terreus , M . varians ) , Micromonospora, Mycobacterium (M . smegmatis , M . tuberculosis , M . africanum, M . haemophilum, M . intracellulare , M . paratuberculosis , M . chelonei , M . abscessus , M . ulcerans , M . chimaera ) , Nocardia (N . transvelencesis , N . farcinica, N . nova, N . brasiliensis , N . africana, N . veterana, N . brevicatena, N . paucivorans , N . otitidiscavarium, N . vaccinii , N . cerradoensis , N . elegans , N . nigiitansis , N . caviae , N . cyriacigeorgica ) , Propionibacterium, Streptomyces ( S . achromogenes , S . aureof aciens , S . coelicolor, S . clavuligerus , S . griseus , S . hygroscopicus , S . iysosuperf icus , S . lividans , S . natalensis , S . netropsis , S . noursei , S . parvus , S . scabies , S . thermoviolaceus , S . violaceoruber ) , Bacillus (B . aerophilus , B . agaradhaerens , B . agri , B . aidingensis , B . akibai , B . alcalophilus , B . alvei , B . amylolyticus , B . anthracis , B . cellulosilyticus , B . centrosporus , B . cereus , B . cibi , B . coagulans , B . firmus , B . galactophilus , B . galactosidilyticus , B . luteus , B . mannanilyticus , B . thermoglucosidasius , B . thermolactis , B . thermophilus , B . thuringiensis ) , Clostridium ( C . aceticum, C . acetobutylicum, C . acidisoli , C . acidurici , C . aerotolerans , C . aminophilum, C . botulinum, C . butyricum, C . cadaveris , C . cellulolyticum, C . clostridioforme , C . glycolicum, C . haemolyticum, C . histolyticum, C . intestinaleC . lactati fermentans , C . perfringens , C . polysaccharolyticum, C . proteolyticum, C . saccharobutyl icum, C . saccharolyticum, C . sporogenes , C . tetani ) , Enterococcus (E . avium, E . dispar, E . durans , E . faecalis , E . faecium, E . flavescens , E . hirae ) , Gardnerella ( G . vaginalis ) , Lactobacillus ( L . acidophilus , L . delbrueckii , L . helveticus , L . salivarius , L . casei , L . curvatus , L . plantarum, L . sakei , L . brevis , L . buchneri , L . fermentum, L . reuteri ) , Listeria ( L . grayi , L . ivanovii , L . monocytogenes , L . seeligeri , L . welshimeri ) , Streptococcus ( S . pyrogenes , S . agalactiae , S . faecalis , S . pneumoniae , S . mutans , S . thermophilus ) .

[0078] Bacteria comprise Gram negatives selected in the group comprising : Campylobacteria ( C . coli , C . concisus , C . j ej uni , Campylobacter rectus ) , Arcobacteria (A. but zleri , A. cryaerophilus ) , Citrobacteria ( C . amalonaticus , C . braakii , C . farmer! , C . freundii , C . gillenii , C . koseri ) Enterobacteria (E . aerogenes , E . agglomerans , E . cloacae , E . cowanii , E . gergoviae ) , Escherichia (E . coli ) , Klebsiella, Morganella (M . morganii ) , Proteus ( P . vulgaris , P . mirabilis ) , Shigella ( S . dysenteriae ) , Salmonella ( S . typhi ) , Yersinia (Y . Pestis , Y . Pseudotuberculosis , Y . Enterocolitica ) , Serratia marcescens, Moraxella (M . catarrhalis ) , Neisseriaceae (N . meningitidis ) , Haemophilus influenzae , Pasteurella multocida, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrionaceae (V . cholerae , V . fischeri ) .

[0079] Yeasts and fungi comprise : Aspergillus (A. fumigatus , A. flavus , A. clavatus ) , Cryptococcus ( C . neoformans , C . gattii ) , Candida ( C . albicans , C . tropicalis , C . stellatoidea, C .glabrata, C . krusei , C . parapsilosis e C . lusitaniae ) , Pneumocystis ( P . carinii ) , Penicillium ( P . chrysogenum, P . digitatum, P . expansum, P . italicum, P . marnef fei , P . purpurogenum) , Blastomyces dermatitidis, Coccidioides ( C . immitis , C . posadasii ) , Histoplasma capsulatum Paracoccidioides brasiliensis , Stachybotrys chartarum.

[0080] In particular, the treatment method is a method comprising the use of a phenolic compound or a mixture of phenolic compounds .

[0081] For the purposes of the present invention, a phenolic compound is to be understood as a phenolic or polyphenolic compound ( in some cases both are referred to only as "phenolic" or "polyphenolic" , hence as synonyms ) selected from the group comprising : simple phenols (molecules with a single benzene ring and containing only hydroxyl groups as substituents , e . g . , phenol and hydroquinones ) , phenolic aldehydes (molecules containing both the phenolic group and the aldehyde group, e . g . , vanillin) , phenolic acids such as cinnamic acids , phenylamines ( amphoteric molecules containing a weakly acidic and a strongly basic group, e . g . , phenylalanine ) , phenolic compounds in which the phenolic ring is linked to another benzene ring or to other heterocyclic compounds having hydroxyl / lactone / ketone functional groups ( e . g . , coumarins and xanthones ) , flavonoids consisting of two benzene rings connected by a three-carbon chain forming an oxygenated heterocyclic ring ( e . g . , catechins , flavonones , flavones , chaicones , flavanonols , flavanols , leucoanthocyanidin,anthocyanidin) , phenylpropanoids characterized by the presence of an aromatic ring with an aliphatic three-carbon side chain (such as hydroxycinnamic acids and tannins) . In particular, a phenolic compound can be selected from the group comprising: resveratrol, aloin, cynarine, epigallocatechin, tannic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydroxytyrosol, rosmarinic acid, naringenin, gallic acid, esperitin, quinic acid, eleonolic acid, pinoresinol, luteolin, apigenin, tangeretin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, myricetin, eriodyctiol, esperetin, naringenin, theaflavin, tearubigin, daidzein, genistein, glycitein, pterostilbene, delphinidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, peonidin, chicoric acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid.

[0082] According to a particular aspect of the invention, a first constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected from the polyphenols belonging to the class of flavonoids .

[0083] In particular, such a class comprises :

[0084] • isoflavones: chemical structure based on a C15 skeleton of carbon atoms consisting of two aromatic rings and one heterocyclic ring; one aromatic ring (ring A) is condensed with the heterocyclic (ring C) and the third (aromatic ring B) connected to these . The difference with the structure of flavones lies in the bond in position 3 instead of 2 of the ring B on the ring C, some examples are Genistein, Daidzein and Cumestrol;

[0085] • flavones or flavonols: chemical structure based on a C15 skeleton of carbon atoms consisting of two aromatic rings and a heterocyclic one; one aromatic ring (ring A) iscondensed with the heterocyclic (ring C) and the third (aromatic ring B) connected to ring C in position 2. Some examples are kaempferol, luteolin, quercetin, catechin, apigenin, hesperidin, rutin, cyanidin;

[0086] • anthocyanins: consisting of a benzene molecule fused with one of pyran (heterocyclic ring containing oxygen) , in turn connected with a phenyl group which can in turn be linked to different substituents . This complex molecule is referred to as the flavylium cation, which is the basic structure of all anthocyanins . Anthocyanins are derived from the respective aglycones (anthocyanidins) , from which they differ by the addition of a glycosidic group (a sugar) , usually in the R3 and / or R4 position. Some examples are delphinidin, petunidin, cyanidin, malvidin, peonidin and pelargonidin;

[0087] • flavanols: chemical structure derived from flavone characterized by a benzene nucleus with a hydroxyl group (- OH) and a C6-C3-C6 structure (consisting of two benzene rings linked by a three-carbon bridge) , some examples are theaflavin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, tannic acid; • flavanones: compounds based on the structure of the carbon atom skeleton of the flavone progenitor, from the structural point of view the double bond between carbon 2 and carbon 3 is missing with respect to the latter, obtaining a compound in reduced form, some examples are naringenin, eriodyctiol, esperetin, galangin.According to a particular aspect of the invention, a second constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected from the polyphenols belonging to the class of phenolic acids or derivatives thereof .

[0088] Phenolic acids have a structure consisting of a benzene ring (Ce) with a hydroxyl group (-0H) and a carboxylic group (-COOH) which make them acidic . They can be derived from benzoic acid (CeHsCOOH) or cinnamic acid (C6H5CH=CHCOOH) . Some examples are : caffeic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, gallic acid, benzoic acid, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, cynarine .

[0089] According to a particular aspect of the invention, a third constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected from the polyphenols belonging to the class of stilbenes .

[0090] Stilbenes consist of two benzene rings (CeHs) joined by a bond =CH (a double bond between two carbon atoms) . Therefore, the basic structure is a diphenylethylene, characterized by the chemical formula C6H5-CH=CH-C6Hs . Stilbenes can have various functional groups, such as -OH (hydroxyl) or -OCH3 (methoxy) , on one or both of the aromatic rings . The position and nature of these groups influence the chemical and biological properties of the compound. Stilbenes with hydroxyl (OH) groups are often more active as antioxidants . Some examples are resveratrol, pterostilbene, viniferine, trans-resveratrol, evodiamine .

[0091] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said mixture of polyphenols further comprises biomoleculesconsisting of multiples of the isoprene unit, obtained by the reaction of several units of isopentenyl pyrophosphate and dimethylallyl pyrophosphate . They can have linear, cyclic or mixed linear and cyclic structure . When such molecules are modified with reactions such as to lead to the formation of functional groups containing atoms other than carbon, such as hydroxyl, carbonyl or nitrogen-containing groups, they can be referred to as terpenoids . Depending on the number of isoprene units contained (CsHg) , such molecules can be included in the groups of : hemiterpenes , monoterpenes (such as geranyl pyrophosphate, ocimene, myrcene, limonene, pinene, menthol, carvone, camphor, cineol) , sesquiterpenes (such as farnesol, bisabolol, cadinol, selinol, vetiver, patchouli, abscissic acid) , diterpenes (abietic acid, aphidicolin, cafestol, cembrene, ferruginol, forskolin, guanacastepene A, kahweol, labdane, lagochiline, sclarene, stemarene, steviol, taxadiene, tiamulin phythol, vitamin A) , sesterterpenes , triterpenes (squalene, ambrein, onocerine, dammarenediol , euphol, tirucallol, lanosterol, lupeol, a-amyrin, taraxasterol, germanicol, cycloartenol ) , tetraterpenes and polyetherpenes .

[0092] In an aspect of the invention, the mixture is based on caffeic acid and comprises caffeic acid.

[0093] In an aspect of the invention, the one or more polyphenols are present in a concentration between 0.005% and 80% w / v.

[0094] In an aspect of the invention, the different polyphenols can be applied in single phases (pure solution) or in treatmentphases involving the use of specifically formulated mixtures of polyphenols .

[0095] In an aspect of the invention, the one or more terpenoids are present in a concentration between 0.001% and 80% w / v.

[0096] In an aspect of the invention the terpenoids (single or in mixture) can be added directly to the polyphenolic solution or applied in subsequent and dedicated treatment steps .

[0097] Alternatively, part of the terpenoids can be mixed with the polyphenolic solution and part applied in subsequent steps as a pure solution or mixture .

[0098] In a preferred aspect, said mixture of polyphenols or said mixture of polyphenols and terpenes is a solution.

[0099] In a preferred aspect, the mixture of the invention is a solution .

[0100] In a preferred aspect, the mixture of the invention can be provided concentrated and possibly suitably diluted before being used, dehydrated, lyophilized, in suspension or in emulsion .

[0101] In a preferred aspect, the mixture of the invention can be provided in liquid, semi-liquid, gel, cream or powder form.

[0102] In an aspect of the invention, said mixture or solution is applied to said assembled or partially assembled footwear, footwear part or material intended for the production thereof, including mono-material footwear produced through molding or direct molding on the upper of inserts or soles in single or multilayer polymer material .Such an application can be carried out by one or more techniques selected from the group comprising: brushing, by roller, by aerosol, impregnation, nebulization, deep-coating, depletion, painting, dipping, spreading, sponging, spraying, electro- spraying .

[0103] In another aspect of the invention, said mixture or solution is used in the preparation or production of or in processing said footwear, footwear part or material intended for the production of said footwear or a part thereof .

[0104] Such a use can comprise the inclusion of the mixture or solution in another mixture or solution used in processing said footwear or a part thereof .

[0105] The mixture of the invention can be included in a raw material or a semi-finished product intended for the production of footwear or a footwear part or material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, for production by molding or direct molding on the upper of inserts or soles in monolayer or multilayer polymer material .

[0106] In an aspect of the method, the raw material in which the mixture of the invention has been included can be heated or extruded or otherwise subj ected to temperatures from 10°C to 300°C .

[0107] According to a first aspect of the invention, the described method is capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of microorganisms due to contact with feet and / or sweat (endogenous factors) .According to a further aspect of the invention, the described method is capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of the microorganisms which may come into contact following external environmental contamination (exogenous factors) .

[0108] In a second aspect of the invention, the described method is microbicidal, at least on part of the microbial population.

[0109] In a third aspect of the invention, the described method does not increase the microbial population, at least with respect to a part of the microbial population.

[0110] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the method described is microbiostatic against microorganisms with which contact has occurred after production .

[0111] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the described method is microbiostatic against the microorganisms with which postproduction and repeated contact has taken place .

[0112] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the method described is microbiostatic against microorganisms with which contact has occurred with a microorganism in the environment or contributed by the subj ect wearing the footwear .

[0113] In a fifth aspect of the invention, the described method maintains the activity thereof even after washing said footwear, footwear part or material intended for the production thereof .

[0114] In particular, such an activity is fully maintained.

[0115] In particular, such an activity is partially maintained.In particular, such an activity is sufficiently maintained for the use of said footwear, footwear part or material intended for the production thereof .

[0116] In a sixth aspect of the invention, the described method prevents the development of unpleasant odors .

[0117] In a seventh aspect of the invention, the described method prevents the development of foot conditions and diseases, such as : plantar bromhidrosis , warts, impetigo, mycosis .

[0118] In an eighth aspect of the invention, the described method prevents said footwear from spreading microorganisms from one environment to another.

[0119] In a ninth aspect of the invention, the described method allows not increasing the load or contamination of an environment in which the footwear or footwear part or material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, is introduced .

[0120] In a second obj ect, the present invention describes footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, to which antimicrobial properties have been imparted.

[0121] Said footwear, footwear part or material intended for the production of footwear or part thereof are those described above .

[0122] In accordance with a third obj ect, the present invention describes a method for treating items or products of daily or otherwise frequent use .

[0123] Such items or products include :- leather items and equivalent products made of synthetic material ;

[0124] - hats and head coverings in general, interior of helmets for vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, sports or work activities ;

[0125] purses, bags, handbags, suitcases, briefcases, backpacks, trunks, luggage racks;

[0126] - motorcycle saddles, bicycle saddles;

[0127] sporting items or parts thereof, such as glasses, goggles, mask, mouthpiece, wetsuit, under-wetsuit .

[0128] In a first aspect, the treatment of the present invention is not carried out on an obj ect or item or product or element intended to be implanted or inserted into the human body or a cavity, orifice, vessel or duct thereof ( for example, bladder catheter) by means of a medical, nursing or surgical procedure; furthermore, the obj ect or item or product or element is not a prosthesis .

[0129] In a second aspect, after production and before use, such an obj ect or item or product or element can be subj ect to sterilization and can be stored under sterile conditions .

[0130] In a third aspect, the described method is capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of microorganisms to the surface or obj ect or item or product or element due to contact with the skin or sweat of the subj ect (endogenous factors) .

[0131] In a fourth aspect, the described method is capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of microorganisms which may come into contact with the surface or obj ect or item orproduct or element following external environmental contamination (exogenous factors) .

[0132] In a fifth aspect, the described method is microbicidal, at least on part of the microbial population.

[0133] In a sixth aspect, the described method does not increase the microbial population, at least with respect to a part of the microbial population.

[0134] In a seventh aspect, the described method is microbiostatic against microorganisms with which a subsequent contact has occurred.

[0135] In an eighth aspect, the described method is microbiostatic against microorganisms with which a subsequent and repeated contact has occurred.

[0136] In a ninth aspect, the described method is microbiostatic against microorganisms with which contact has occurred with a microorganism in the environment or contributed by the subj ect using the surface or obj ect or item or product or element .

[0137] In a tenth aspect, the described method maintains the activity thereof even after washing or cleaning or sterilizing the surface or obj ect or item or product or element .

[0138] In particular, such an activity is fully maintained. In particular, such an activity is partially maintained. In particular, such an activity is maintained sufficiently for the use of said surface or obj ect or item or product or element .

[0139] In an eleventh aspect of the invention, the described method prevents the development of unpleasant odors .In a twelfth aspect of the invention, the described method prevents microorganisms from spreading from one environment to another .

[0140] In a thirteenth aspect of the invention, the described method allows not increasing the load or contamination of an environment in which the surface or obj ect or item or product or element is introduced.

[0141] The invention will be described in more detail in the experimental part below.

[0142] Validation of antimicrobial activity related to environmental contamination (exogenous factors)

[0143] To confirm the effectiveness of the treatment described herein regarding the inhibition of environmental contamination, a specific experiment was set up . Several samples made of materials used in the manufacture of footwear or parts thereof, treated and untreated with the technology of the patent, were voluntarily contaminated with a known concentration of a bacterial / fungal mixture . After incubation with such a mixture, the percentage of live microorganisms present in the treated samples was compared with respect to those not treated. The results were expressed as a percentage of microbicidal activity. Below is the experimental protocol .

[0144] Sample preparation and treatment

[0145] Circular samples (diameter ~1.5 cm) were obtained from different materials used in the manufacture of footwear orfootwear parts as listed below: RUBBER, thermoplastic polymer (TPU) , ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) , expanded ethylene vinyl acetate, rubber + microporous mixture (soft microlite) , additional rubber + microporous mixture (hard microlite) and leather . The samples thus produced were subj ected to treatment with 4 different types of polyphenolic mixtures as shown in Table 1 below:

[0146] Table 1 - Polyphenolic mixtures used for the test

[0147] MIXTURE COMPOUND 1 COMPOUND 2

[0148] [ 0. 005%-80% ] w / v [ 0. 005%-80% ] w / v

[0149] IP Theaf lavin Gallic Acid 2P Tannic Acid Caffeic Acid 3P Luteolin Cynarine 4P Epigallocat echin Chlorogenic acid

[0150]

[0151] For each polyphenolic mixture, the treatment procedure included two different conditions : Condition (1) treatment with polyphenolic mixture followed by a mixture of terpenoids and Condition (2) treatment with polyphenolic mixture added with a mixture of terpenoids .

[0152] The protocol is described below:

[0153] Condition (1) - the different polyphenolic solutions were prepared by dissolving the various powders in deionized water . It may be useful to add a percentage of alcohol between 1% v / v and 90% v / v to facilitate the solubilization of powders . In the example case, isopropyl alcohol was chosen at aconcentration of 15% v / v (ethyl, methyl, propyl, phenoxyethanol alcohol can also be used) . The rods were immersed in the different polyphenolic mixtures ( IP, 2P, 3P and 4P) at room temperature and away from light / heat sources for a time between 15 seconds and 5 hours (STEP 1 ) . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was selected. The samples were then subj ected to washing cycles with deionized water which can be between a number of 2 and 10 and each lasting about 15 minutes . In this specific case, 2 washing steps were applied for a total of 30 minutes . The samples were then placed individually in different terpenoid mixtures as shown in Table 2 below:

[0154] Table 2 - Terpenoid mixtures used for the test MIXTURE COMPOUND 1 COMPOUND 2

[0155] [ 0 . 001%-80% ] w / v [ 0 . 001%-80% ] w / v

[0156] IT Geraniol Citral 2T Citronellol Limonene 3T Linalool Nerol 4T Geraniol Nerol

[0157]

[0158] The terpenoid mixture was produced by dissolving the individual compounds in a percentage of alcohol between 1% v / v and 90% v / v of the final volume of the solution. In the case reported as an example, 15% isopropyl alcohol was chosen (ethyl, methyl, propyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol can also be used) . The missing part of deionized water was then added. The samples were incubated in the different terpene mixtures( T 1 , T2, T3 and T4 ) at room temperature and away from light / heat sources for a time between 15 seconds and 5 hours (STEP 2 ) . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was selected. The samples were then subj ected to washing cycles with deionized water, which can be between a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10 and each lasting about 15 minutes . In this specific case, 2 washing steps were applied for a total of 30 minutes . The samples thus treated were placed in an air oven at a temperature between 10 and 300°C, in particular, in the specific case, a temperature of 38 °C was adopted for a time between 5 seconds and 2 hours, in the specific case 30 minutes, so as to dry the surfaces thereof .

[0159] Condition (2) - The component belonging to the phenolic acid family was dissolved in a percentage of alcohol between 1% v / v and 90% v / v of the final volume of the solution. In the case reported as an example, 15% isopropyl alcohol was chosen (ethyl, methyl, propyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol can also be used) . The terpenoid molecules were then added (as reported in Table 2 ) . In the portion of deionized water, instead, the substances belonging to the group of flavonoids and / or stilbenes were solubilized for the constitution of the mixtures as indicated in Table 1. The alcoholic portion and the aqueous portion were then combined in a single solution. The rods were immersed in the different mixtures of polyphenols + terpenoids at room temperature and away from light / heat sources for a time between 15 seconds and 5 hours . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was selected. The samples were then subj ectedto washing cycles with deionized water, which can be between a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10 and each lasting about 15 minutes . In the specific case, 4 washing steps were applied for a total of 60 minutes . The samples thus treated were placed in an air oven at a temperature between 10°C and 300°C, in particular, in the specific case, a temperature of 38 °C was adopted for a time between 5 seconds and 2 hours, in the specific case 30 minutes, so as to dry the surfaces thereof .

[0160] Test for evaluating microbicidal activity

[0161] The samples treated according to Condition (1) and Condition (2) and some original samples (untreated) were placed in a sterile tube and left to incubate for 24-48 hours at 37 °C with a mixture of bacteria / fungi at a concentration of 108CFU / mL . Specifically, the bacteria / fungi are identifiable among the species : S. aureus, S. epidermidis , B. bifidum, M. lactis, E. faecalis , L. acidophilus , L. salivarius , S. faecalis, E. coll and C. albicans .

[0162] At the end of incubation, the specimens were taken and rinsed in isotonic solution to remove the weakly adhered microorganisms . In a new sterile tube, the samples were analyzed for the presence of live microorganisms on the surface, in particular:

[0163] • The presence of Gram-positives was verified through the formation of oxygen bubbles;

[0164] • The presence of Gram-negatives was verified through the formation of a blue coloration of the development liquid and in any case by reading the absorption spectrum;• Negative internal control given by a sterile swab .

[0165] The principle of the test adopted is based on the presence of the peroxidase of Gram-negative bacteria which catalyzes the conversion of colorless 3, 5, 3 ' , 5 ' -tetramethyl benzidine (TMB) into visible oxidized TMB by virtue of a blue color change in the presence of H2O2 . The color variation is measured by running an absorption spectrum (200 nm - 800 nm) . Grampositive bacteria instead contain abundant catalase which can catalyze the generation of oxygen in the presence of H2O2, responsible for the formation of air bubbles visible to the naked eye .

[0166] Results

[0167] Below are the data as a percentage of microbicidal activity, obtained by comparison between the treated and untreated samples . Considering the bacteria found in the untreated samples as the maximum number capable of colonizing the surfaces ( 100%) , after obtaining the results on the samples treated with the different methods, the percentage of microbicidal activity was calculated and reported in Tables 3 and 4 .

[0168] Table 3 - Condition (1)

[0169] Example STEP 1 STEP 2 % MICROBICIDAL ACTIVITY la IP IT 93.6% ± 4%

[0170] 2a IP 2T 69. 6% ± 2.1%

[0171] 3a IP 3T 44. 6% ± 1.9%

[0172] 4a IP 4T 89.8% ± 3.8%

[0173] 5a 2P IT 98. 6% ± 4.2%

[0174] 6a 2P 2T 81.6% ± 6%

[0175] 7a 2P 3T 70.1% ± 1. 6%

[0176] 8a 2P 4T 97.5% ± 4.5%

[0177] 9a 3P IT 58% ± 9.2%

[0178]

[0179] 10a 3P 2T 66. 6% ± 5.7%

[0180] 11a 3P 3T 89. 6% ± 3.3%

[0181] 12a 3P 4T 75. 6% ± 2.5%

[0182] 13a 4P IT 88.4% ± 1.5%

[0183] 14a 4P 2T 76.2% ± 8. 6%

[0184] 15a 4P 3T 79.1% ± 7.5%

[0185] 16a 4P 4T 86.8% ± 6.5%

[0186]

[0187] Table 4 - Condition (2)

[0188] Example MIXTURE % MICROBICIDAL ACTIVITY lb IP + IT 88.4% ± 7.7% 2b IP + 2T 61. 6% ± 5.1% 3b IP + 3T 34.9% ± 7.2% 4b IP + 4T 69.4% ± 8.8% 5b 2P + IT 97.9% ± 3.7% 6b 2P + 2T 72. 6. 6% ± 4.4%

[0189] 7b 2P + 3T 65.3% ± 7.1% 8b 2P + 4T 89.8% ± 6.7% 9b 3P + IT 48.5% ± 4. 6% 10b 3P + 2T 56.2% ± 2.3% lib 3P + 3T 78.2% ± 3.3% 12b 3P + 4T 79.5% ± 1.5% 13b 4P + IT 78.4% ± 6. 6% 14b 4P + 2T 76.7% ± 2.7% 15b 4P + 3T 82.8% ± 4.7% 16b 4P + 4T 76.1% ± 5.3%

[0190]

[0191] The treatment involving sample incubation in the polyphenol mixtures reported in Table 1 followed by a second incubation in the terpene mixtures reported in Table 2 (Condition (I) ) rather than sample incubation in a single polyphenol / terpene mixture (Condition (2) ) showed significant antimicrobial activity with respect to the untreated samples . The treatment proved capable of ensuring a microbicidal activity capable of eliminating up to 98. 6% ± 4.2% of the bacteria / fungi following exogenous contamination of the s amp 1 e .The following are, as an example, some figures related to the results obtained from the individual tests :

[0192] Figure 1 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on LIGHT EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 4P + 4T mixtures;

[0193] Figure 2 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on LIGHT EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 4P + 4T mixtures;

[0194] Figure 3 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria through scanning electron microscopy on LIGHT EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 4P + 4T mixtures;

[0195] Figure 4 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on DENSE EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;

[0196] Figure 5 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on DENSE EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;

[0197] Figure 6 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria through scanning electron microscopy on DENSE EVA samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;

[0198] Figure 7 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on RUBBER samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;

[0199] Figure 8 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on RUBBER samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;Figure 9 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria through scanning electron microscopy on RUBBER samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 2P + IT mixtures;

[0200] Figure 10 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on TPU samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 4P + 3T mixtures;

[0201] Figure 11 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on TPU samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 4P + 3T mixtures;

[0202] Figure 12 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria through scanning electron microscopy on TPU samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , 4P + 3T mixtures;

[0203] Figure 13 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on SOFT MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , mixtures IP + IT;

[0204] Figure 14 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on SOFT MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , IP + IT mixtures;

[0205] Figure 15 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria by scanning electron microscopy on SOFT MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , IP + IT mixtures;

[0206] Figure 16 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on HARD MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , mixtures IP + IT;

[0207] Figure 17 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on HARD MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , mixtures IP + IT;Figure 18 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria through scanning electron microscopy on HARD MICROLITE samples treated and untreated with Condition (2 ) , IP + IT mixtures;

[0208] Figure 19 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-negative bacteria on LEATHER samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 3P + 3T mixtures;

[0209] Figure 20 - Evaluation of the presence of Gram-positive bacteria on LEATHER samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 3P + 3T mixtures;

[0210] Figure 21 - Evaluation of the presence of bacteria by scanning electron microscopy on LEATHER samples treated and untreated with Condition ( 1 ) , 3P + 3T mixtures .

[0211] Validation of antimicrobial activity related to the use of footwear (endogenous factors)

[0212] To confirm the effectiveness of the treatment described herein regarding the inhibition of the growth of microorganisms derived from the use of footwear and the direct contact thereof with the foot and sweat, a specific experiment was set up . Some mono-material EVA slippers were subj ected to the treatment with the mixtures which showed the best results in the previous tests . Specifically, for each pair of slippers, the left was subj ected to treatment and the right left original (untreated, Figure 22 ) . The slippers were then worn for a maximum of 10 weeks in direct contact with the feet (without the use of socks) . Both slippers (treated and untreated) were tested for the presence of live bacteria on the sole surface at 5 and 10weeks . Furthermore, the presence and / or development of unpleasant odors was also assessed. In particular :

[0213] • Before the experimental phase, the slippers were washed with neutral detergent and dried. The removal of bacteria from the slipper was carried out with the aid of a swab . Tests were carried out to evaluate the presence of bacteria before starting the use phase of the slipper (unquantif iable result) ;

[0214] • The negative control is given by a swab soaked only with sterile reaction buffer .

[0215] • The presence of Gram-positives was verified through the formation of oxygen bubbles;

[0216] • The presence of Gram-negatives was verified through the formation of a blue coloration of the development liquid and in any case by reading the absorption spectrum;

[0217] The principle of the test adopted is based on the presence of the peroxidase of Gram-negative bacteria which catalyzes the conversion of colorless 3, 5, 3 ' , 5 ' -tetramethyl benzidine (TMB) into visible oxidized TMB by virtue of a blue color change in the presence of H2O2 . The color variation is measured by running an absorption spectrum (200 nm - 800 nm) . Grampositive bacteria instead contain abundant catalase which can catalyze the generation of oxygen in the presence of H2O2, responsible for the formation of air bubbles visible to the naked eye .

[0218] ResultsBelow are the data as a percentage of microbicidal activity, obtained by comparison between the treated (T) and untreated (NT) slipper . Considering the bacteria found in the untreated slipper as the maximum number capable of colonizing the surface ( 100%) , after obtaining the results on the slipper treated with the different methods, the percentage of microbicidal activity was calculated and reported in Tables 5 and 6. A column was added to the table, referred to as OD (Odor Development, T treated and NT not treated slipper) and referring to the development of unpleasant odor on a scale from 0 to 5, where 0 indicates complete absence and 5 maximum presence of unpleasant odor .

[0219] Table 5 - Condition (1)

[0220] % MICROBICIDAL

[0221] WEEKS STEP 1 STEP 2 OD T OD NT ACTIVITY

[0222] 5 92.5% ± 3.2% 0 3 IP IT

[0223] 10 89. 6% ± 2.2% 1 5 5 84. 9% ± 5.3% 0 4 IP 4T

[0224] 10 89.8% ± 6. 8% 0 5 5 96. 9% ± 5 .2% 0 3

[0225] 2P IT

[0226] 10 98.1% ± 3.3% 1 4 5 84.2% ± 7. 1% 0 4

[0227] 2P 2T

[0228] 10 77.4% ± 5.3% 0 4 5 96.5% ± 2. 9% 0 5

[0229] 2P 4T

[0230] 10 93. 9% ± 6. 6% 0 5 5 83. 6% ± 9.3% 0 4

[0231] 3P 3T

[0232] 10 79.8% ± 1.7% 1 5 5 89.4% ± 4.2% 0 3

[0233] 4P IT

[0234] 10 81.1% ± 5.5% 0 5 5 76.8% ± 6. 9% 0 4

[0235] 4P 4T

[0236] 10 83. 6% ± 4. 6% 0 5

[0237]

[0238] Table 6 - Condition (2)

[0239] % MICROBICIDAL

[0240] WEEKS MIXTURE OD T OD NT ACTIVITY

[0241] 5 IP ± IT 82.5% ± 6.2% 0 3

[0242]

[0243] 10 88.2% ± 2.3% 1 4 5 99.3% ± 1.2% 0 4

[0244] 2P + IT

[0245] 10 97.7% ± 4.1% 0 5 5 85.3% ± 3.2% 0 5

[0246] 2P + 4T

[0247] 10 89.5% ± 5.5% 0 5 5 77.7% ± 2.3% 0 4

[0248] 2P + 2T

[0249] 10 78.1% ± 4.4% 0 5 5 69.7% ± 7.1% 0 4

[0250] 3P + 3T

[0251] 10 75.4% ± 6.7% 0 4 5 85.2% ± 2.1% 0 3

[0252] 4P + 3T

[0253] 10 79.8% ± 9.2% 0 5 5 70.7% ± 6.4% 0 4

[0254] 4P + 4T

[0255] 10 73.9% ± 4% 1 5

[0256]

[0257] The following are, as an example, some figures related to the results obtained from the individual tests :

[0258] Figure 22 Mono-material EVA slippers used for the experimentation, The left slipper of each pair was treated with the technology, the right one left original without any manipulation .

[0259] Figure 23 - Results related to Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT 5 WEEKS - Gram-negative presence evaluation.

[0260] Figure 24 - Results related to Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT 5 WEEKS - Gram-positive presence evaluation.

[0261] Figure 25 - Results related to Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT 10 WEEKS - Gram-negative presence evaluation.

[0262] Figure 26 - Results related to Condition ( 1 ) , 2P + IT 10 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0263] Figure 27 - Results related to Condition (2 ) , 2P + 4T 5 WEEKS - Gram-negative presence evaluation.

[0264] Figure 28 - Results related to Condition (2 ) , 2P + 4T 5 WEEKS - Gram-positive presence evaluation.Figure 29 Results related to Condition (2 ) , 2P + 4T 10 WEEKS - Gram-negative presence evaluation.

[0265] Figure 30 - Results related to Condition (2 ) , 2P + 4T 10 WEEKS - Gram positive presence evaluation.

[0266] Even after intensive use, the various treatments corresponding to Condition ( 1 ) and Condition (2 ) proved stable in the interaction with the surface on which they were applied, despite the friction to which they were inevitably subj ected, and the presence of sweat .

[0267] Furthermore, no changes in the coloration or the original surface of the slippers were highlighted.

[0268] Further, the treatments did not promote any type of allergic reaction, proving effective in preventing bacterial adhesion and consequent colonization at the level of the samples analyzed for both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria .

[0269] There was a total absence of unpleasant odors in the treated slippers for the entire duration of the observation.

[0270] The invention has been shown to be capable of inhibiting up to 97.7% ± 4.1% of the microbial growth which can develop following the use of footwear and the consequent contact with the foot and sweat .

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for treating footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, such as to impart antimicrobial properties to said footwear, footwear part or material, said method comprising the steps of applying or contacting a polyphenol-based mixture to said footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof or including said polyphenol-based mixture in a raw material or a semi-finished product intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, wherein said mixture is polyphenol-based.

2. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein said mixture of polyphenols comprises one or more of the following components :i) a first component, wherein said polyphenols are selected from the group comprising: flavonoids, such as isoflavones, flavones or flavonols, anthocyanins, favanols, flavanones ;ii) a second component, wherein said polyphenols are selected from the group comprising: phenolic acids or derivatives thereof ;iii) a third component, wherein said polyphenols are selected in the group comprising: stilbenes .

3. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said method optionally comprises subj ecting said footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof, to one or morewashing steps with water or with an aqueous, alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solution.

4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a step of applying or contacting with a mixture of terpenoids .

5. A method according to the preceding claim, wherein said step of applying or contacting said footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof with a polyphenolic mixture and said step of applying or contacting said footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof with a mixture of terpenoids are carried out simultaneously, using a solution comprising polyphenols and terpenoids .

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said one or more polyphenols are in a concentration between 0.005% and 80% (w / v) .

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims 4 to 6, wherein said one or more terpenoids are in a concentration between 0.001% and 80% (w / v) .

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said polyphenol mixture and said terpenoid mixture are, independently of each other, aqueous or alcoholic or hydroalcoholic mixtures .

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said alcoholic or hydroalcoholic mixtures comprise analcohol selected from the group comprising: ethyl, methyl, propyl, isopropyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol .

10. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixture is based on caffeic acid.

11. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixture is in liquid, semi-liquid, gel, cream or powder form.

12. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said mixture is concentrated and optionally suitably diluted before being used.

13. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein after inclusion of the mixture in a raw or semifinished material, a heating and / or extrusion step is carried out .

14. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application can be carried out by one or more techniques selected from the group comprising: brushing, by roller, by aerosol, impregnation, nebulization, deep-coating, depletion, painting, dipping, spreading, sponging, spraying, electro- spraying .

15. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application or contact steps are each carried out independently of each other for a time from 15 seconds to 5 hours .

16. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application or contact steps are each carried out independently of each other for a time of 1.5 hours .

17. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application is carried out at a temperature between 10°C and 300°C.

18. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said application is carried out in the dark or in any case in the absence of light .

19. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said antimicrobial properties are applied against bacteria, yeasts, viruses .

20. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said antimicrobial properties are applied against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria .

21. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said antimicrobial properties are applied towards microorganisms of the environment with which contact has occurred or brought about by the subj ect wearing the footwear .

22. Footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof , to which antimicrobial properties have been imparted by the method according to any one of the preceding claims .

23. Footwear according to the preceding claim, which is selected from the group comprising: dress shoes, casual shoes and in particular sneakers, sports shoes, professional shoes and footwear, in particular safety shoes, clogs for healthcare and / or public environments, house shoes .

24. A footwear part according to claim 22, which is selected from the group comprising:- outer part of the shoe, comprising: upper, tip, toe cap, cap, broguing, mesh inserts, sole template, quarters, tongue (outer surface, front part, lining and foam) , flap, spur, heel, counter, lace catch, strap;- structural part : shank, padding;- part of the inner lining of the shoe, comprising: inner lining, removable and non-removable liner, insole, underpad, footbed; from the heel : heel tab, counter, collar, inflatables; - lower portion closer to the ground: sole, midsole, tread, strobel, midfoot, heel, sole edge, and portions thereof ;- seams, fastenings, strings, laces, hook and loop closure system.

25. A material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof according to claim 22, which is selected from the group comprising:. natural material selected from:- leather and hide (bovine, goat, sheep, other animals) ; - natural fiber fabrics and non-woven fabrics : cotton, hemp, linen, wool, felt;- wood;- cork;- natural rubber, possibly vulcanized, nitrile rubber; faux-leather materials obtained from plant raw materials (apple) or from mushrooms .. a synthetic material selected from:polyurethane, polyamide, polyester, nylon;- EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) , EVAPU / rubber , EVA / rubber;TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) , bi-component polyurethanes such as polyether or polyester-based PUR, double-density polyurethane;- polyacrylates;- PVC;- PRU (combination of rubber and polyurethane) ;- technical foams (Boost, Zoom, Gel) ;- TR (thermoplastic rubbers) , based on styrene-butadiene-styrene ( SBS ) ;- polymers and foams based on polyethylene and olefin copolymers, chloropolymers, polyamides and silicones;- composite materials .

26. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said footwear or a footwear part or a material intended for the production of footwear or a part thereof is replaced by an item or product of daily or frequent use such as to impart antimicrobial properties thereto, wherein said item or product comprises :- leather items and equivalent products made of synthetic material ;- hats and head coverings in general, interior of helmets for vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles, sports or work activities ;purses, bags, handbags, suitcases, briefcases, backpacks, trunks, luggage racks;- motorcycle saddles, bicycle saddles;sporting items or parts thereof, such as glasses, goggles, mask, mouthpiece, wetsuit, under-wetsuit .

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