Method for the antimicrobial treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for the antimicrobial treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric.

Description

[0001] "Method for the antimicrobial treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric"

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Antibacterial treatments on garments have assumed a fundamental role in the promotion of hygiene and safety in different fields, in particular in hospital, clinical and care environments and in particularly sensitive subj ects such as children or persons debilitated by acute or chronic pathological conditions . These treatments not only protect individual health, but also collective health, preventing the spread of bacteria, infections and diseases . Furthermore, in contexts such as clothing stores, where garments are tried on by numerous customers , the adoption of antibacterial technologies on garments represents a decisive step to ensure a safer and more hygienic environment .

[0004] Hospitals are environments in which the proliferation of bacteria, viruses and other pathogens is particularly concerning . The interaction between patients and healthcare workers , in addition to the presence of staff and visitors , increases the risk of cross-contamination. Patients , especially those who are immunocompromised or subj ected to intensive treatments , are particularly vulnerable to infections that may derive from bacteria present on surfaces or garments . In such a context, the development of antibacterial treatments for garments such as the work uniforms of doctors, nurses and healthcare workers represents a crucial preventive measure . Furthermore, healthcare personnel are often exposed to bodily fluids or to contaminated materials, rendering the uniforms themselves and the gowns the main causes that expose to the risk of transmission .

[0005] Newborns and small children, in particular, are much more vulnerable to pathogens as compared with adults . Their immune system is not yet completely developed and their skin is more sensitive, which renders them more susceptible to infections , dermatitis or other skin problems deriving from contact with bacteria . In particular, garments for children, such as bodysuits, rompers and pyj amas , come into close contact with the delicate skin of the young, and often also with saliva and secretions . The presence of bacteria on the surface of the garments can favour the onset of dermatitis or bacterial infections (among the most common Staphylococcus epidermidis or Escherichia coli ) . Furthermore, children tend to explorethe world through direct contact with the surrounding environment, often putting their hands in their mouths or touching dirty surfaces . This increases the probability of contamination of their garments .

[0006] Another field wherein bacterial contaminations of garments can be particularly critical is that of retail sale . In clothing stores, garments are tried on by numerous customers during the day. This creates an ideal environment for the transmission of bacteria, viruses or fungi, which can be easily transferred from one person to another . The surfaces of garments, in particular in the areas of contact with the skin such as collars, cuffs or armpits , can accumulate bacteria and therefore become potential vehicles of contamination .

[0007] The development of a non-toxic antibacterial treatment, also safe for the most sensitive subj ects , makes it possible not only to improve hygiene by preventing environmental contamination, but also to counter common problems such as the formation of unpleasant odours from garments .

[0008] The latter is often caused by the proliferation of bacteria that develop in contact with the skin, especially during physical activity or in hot and humid environments . Bacteria, in fact, feed on sweat and on other organic substances produced by the body, such as sebum and dead skin cells , releasing volatile compounds which, when metabolised, produce bad odours . Without an adequate treatment, bacteria can continue to multiply, rendering the garments unpleasant to wear and increasing the possibilities of acting as a carrier for the contamination of new environments and of nearby subjects .

[0009] Underwear garments are among the garments most subj ect to direct contact with the skin and with the mucous membranes . Due to this privileged position and the greater exposure to perspiration and to bodily secretions , they constitute a fertile ground for the proliferation of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms . Contact with the mucous membranes , such as the genital and anal ones, favours the development of a bacterial flora that can be difficult to control without adequate hygiene . In particular, the growth of bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus or Candida albicans can lead to infections such as vaginitis , dermatitis and other skin problems .

[0010] Currently, different approaches exist to reduce the bacterial load of garments , however, although they can significantly contribute to improving hygienic protection and to preventing the spread of unpleasant odours , there are some limitations and challenges associated with thesetechnologies . Below the main antibacterial treatments currently used on fabrics and the related limitations will be explored.

[0011] Triclosan

[0012] Triclosan is a chemical compound with antibacterial and antifungal properties that has been used to treat fabrics and garments, in particular in products intended for sportspeople or for persons living in environments with high bacterial exposure . Triclosan acts by interfering with the production of fatty acids in bacterial cells, preventing their reproduction and growth. Such compound has been the subject of increasing attention for its potential side effects on health and on the environment . In particular, it has been associated with endocrinological problems, since it can interfere with the production of hormones in the human body. Furthermore, bacterial resistance to triclosan is an increasing concern, with studies suggesting that excessive use may contribute to the development of resistant bacterial strains . Due to these concerns, some countries have limited or prohibited the use of triclosan in consumer products, including fabrics .

[0013] Silver nanoparticles

[0014] Silver nanoparticles are one of the most widespread antibacterial treatments in fabrics . Silver has natural antimicrobial properties and, when applied to fabrics, can significantly reduce the proliferation of bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms . Silver nanoparticles act by interfering with the cellular respiration of bacteria and by damaging their membranes, thus preventing growth and multiplication . This treatment is widely used in sports garments, underwear garments and in hospital environments , since it provides durable protection and reduces bad odours caused by bacterial proliferation . Although silver is effective against a wide range of bacteria, its activity can decrease over time with washing, since the nanoparticles can lose their antimicrobial activity. Furthermore, silver can accumulate in the environment and in ecosystems , raising concerns related to its environmental sustainability and to the potential ecological impact . Finally, silver may cause allergic reactions or skin irritations in some persons, especially if used in high concentrations .

[0015] Zinc oxide-based technologies

[0016] Zinc oxide is another antibacterial treatment that is used to treat fabrics, especially garments for children or intimate products . This compound has antimicrobial properties and can also act as a protective barrier against UV rays . Zinc oxide binds to the fibres of fabrics andacts as a disinfectant, eliminating a variety of bacteria and fungi that cause skin infections or bad odours . Similarly to the treatment with silver, zinc oxide can also lose its effectiveness over time, especially with frequent washing . Furthermore, it can cause skin irritations in some persons, especially in the case of prolonged exposure or sensitive skin. Although zinc oxide is generally considered safe, concerns regarding its efficiency and the duration of the antimicrobial effect in the long term are still under study.

[0017] Copper-based treatments

[0018] Copper is another metal that has natural antibacterial properties . Fabrics treated with copper are capable of reducing the growth of bacteria and fungi, preventing the formation of unpleasant odours and protecting the skin from infections . The treatment is often used for sports garments, underwear garments and footwear, and is particularly appreciated for its capability of acting against a wide range of microorganisms . One of the main limitations of copper as an antibacterial treatment on fabrics is that the effectiveness can decrease significantly after many washing cycles . Furthermore, copper may be less effective against some resistant bacterial strains, and, like silver, can accumulate in the environment, raising ecological concerns .

[0019] Antimicrobial polymer -based treatments

[0020] Some fabrics are treated with antimicrobial polymers, which are applied to form a protective barrier against bacteria . These polymers can be designed to slowly release substances that kill bacteria, creating an environment hostile to their proliferation . This type of treatment is used in work garments , medical garments and sports garments . Although antimicrobial polymers can be very effective, their environmental impact is an increasing concern. Some of these polymers may not be completely biodegradable, leading to water contamination during washing cycles . Furthermore, the effectiveness of these treatments can decrease over time and with the number of washings , and the polymers may be less stable on certain types of fabrics .

[0021] In general, the current limitations of antibacterial treatments on fabrics are mainly related to :

[0022] ( 1 ) Duration of effectiveness : many treatments lose their effectiveness over time, especially after numerous washings . The antimicrobial particles can be removed from the fabric, reducing the protection provided;( 2 ) Risk of resistance : excessive use of antibacterial treatments, in particular with chemical substances such as triclosan, can lead to the development of resistant bacteria . This could reduce the effectiveness of the treatments in the long term and increase the risk of infections from resistant bacteria;

[0023] ( 3 ) Sustainability and environmental impact : some antibacterial treatments , such as those based on silver or copper, raise ecological concerns , since nanoparticles or heavy metals can accumulate in the environment and have harmful effects on ecosystems;

[0024] ( 4 ) Safety for human health: some antibacterial treatments, such as triclosan, have been associated with risks for human health, including potential endocrine effects and skin allergies . It is essential that antibacterial treatments be tested for safety and that safe compounds be used, especially in garments intended for children and sensitive persons .

[0025] In conclusion, antibacterial treatments on garments are a key element to ensure not only personal hygiene, but also to protect the surrounding environment from contamination (exogenous and endogenous factors ) . The capability of reducing unpleasant odours, preventing the proliferation of bacteria and fungi and reducing the risk of environmental contamination renders these treatments particularly useful in many fields, including daily use and sports practice . For underwear garments, in particular, antibacterial effectiveness is essential to maintain adequate intimate hygiene and to prevent discomfort and infections , especially in areas of the body that are frequently exposed to bacteria and fungi . The increasing adoption of safe and ecological antibacterial treatments on garments not only improves the quality of life, but also contributes to greater environmental sustainability, promoting a balance between individual wellbeing and respect for the environment .

[0026] The prior art document represented by the publication of Shristirupa Borah et al . ("Application of Tectona grandis Leaf Extract for Efficient and Stabilized Coloration of Mulberry Silk Fabric" . Journal : Fibers and Polymers . Volume 25 , pages 4755-4770 , year 2024 ) describes the use of an extract of teak leaves ( Tectona grandis) as a natural dye for the dyeing of mulberry silk in combination with metallic mordants . The research highlighted a high colour yield . The treatment not only dyes the fabric, but provides UV protection and antibacterial properties .

[0027] The prior art document represented by the publication of Wan-Meng Song ("Multi-functional finishing of viscose fabrics based on teapolyphenols : Integrated flame retardant, antibacterial, hydrophobic, and UV-resistant functionalities", Composites Part B : Engineering, volume 287 , 2024 ) describes a multifunctional finishing agent for viscose fabrics named PAT, obtained by combining phytic acid ( PA) and tea polyphenols (TP) ; such treatment confers on the material excellent flame-retardant, antibacterial and UV-resistance properties (UPF 53.2 ) and increases its mechanical breaking strength.

[0028] Summary of the invention

[0029] The inventors of the present patent application have developed a method that is capable of conferring antimicrobial properties on a fabric .

[0030] Brief description of the figures

[0031] Figure 1 - Results in accordance with ISO 20743 relating to a 100% cotton fabric, treated 1P+4T in finishing in Condition (c) .

[0032] Figure 2 - Results in accordance with ISO 20743 relating to a 100% cotton fabric, treated 2P+4T in finishing in Condition (a) .

[0033] Figure 3 - Results in accordance with ISO 20743 relating to a polyamide fabric, treated 2P+1T in finishing in Condition (b) .

[0034] Figure 4 - Results in accordance with ISO 20743 relating to a polyester fabric, treated 4P+2T in finishing in Condition (a) .

[0035] Object of the invention

[0036] In a first obj ect, the present invention describes a method for the antimicrobial treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .

[0037] In a first aspect, said fibre, said fabric or said non-woven fabric is of natural origin .

[0038] In a second aspect, said fibre, said fabric or said non-woven fabric is of synthetic origin .

[0039] In a third aspect, said fibre, said fabric or said non-woven fabric is of mixed origin, that is partly of natural origin and partly synthetic .

[0040] In a second obj ect, the final products having antimicrobial properties obtained with the method of the invention are described .

[0041] Detailed description of the invention

[0042] In a first obj ect, the present invention describes a method for the antimicrobial treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .In a first aspect, said fibre, said fabric or said non-woven fabric is of natural origin .

[0043] For the purposes of the present invention, a fibre of natural origin is selected from the group comprising : cotton (denim, chintz, terry, seersucker, tela bandera, fustian) , linen, hemp, nettle, ramie, sisal, coconut, broom, bamboo, kenaf, castor, vegetable silk (cotton) , sisal, kapok, ramie, jute, straw, silk (cady, taffeta, mikado, georgette, chiffon, organza, satin, lampas, brocatelle, velvet, damask, brocade, crepe, shantung, crepe de Chine, filaticcio or traliccio lucchese, ermisino or ermesino, parachute) , byssus , wool ( sheep' s wool, alpaca wool, goat' s wool : cashmere merinos , shetland, bluefaced leicester, corriedale, crossbreeds , lamb, English, Asian, mazamet, regenerated, hair, guanaco, angora, camel, mohair, alpaca, llama, vicuna, bison, qiviut, yak) , goose down, rabbit .

[0044] In a second aspect, said fibre, said fabric or said non-woven fabric is artificial or synthetic .

[0045] For the purposes of the present invention, a fibre of artificial origin is selected from the group comprising : rayon, viscose rayon, Cuprammonium rayon ( cupro) , Modal, cellulose diacetate (Acetate) , cellulose triacetate (Triacetate) , viscose, Lyocell (or Tencel) , rubber (or caoutchouc) or synthetic fibres such as polyamide fibres (nylon and aramids ) , acrylic or modacrylic fibres, polyester ( saturated, unsaturated or modified) , polypropylene fibres, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) , elastomeric fibres , Nylon® (and Econyl®) , elastane or spandex, polyurethane, acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene (Teflon, Fluon, Algoflon, Hostaflon, Inoflon, Guaflon and Gore-tex®) .

[0046] For the purposes of the present invention, a fabric indicates a material made by weaving or interlacing or knitting, of fibres more or less long, for their entire length, wherein it is possible to identify the two or more prevailing directions , such as weft and warp .

[0047] For the purposes of the present invention, a non-woven fabric (TNT or non-woven) is obtained starting from fibres more or less long, arranged in a random order, with mechanical techniques (needling, hydro-needling, carding) , thermal techniques (heat-setting) , chemical or mixed techniques (felting) .

[0048] A non-woven fabric can be made starting from natural fibres ( felt from animal fibres and paper from vegetable fibres ) or, often, from nonnatural fibres (artificial or synthetic) , such as polyester, viscose rayon, polypropylene . Some examples : Spunbond Polypropylene, Meltblown, SMS(Spunbond-Meltblown-Spunbond) , needlepunched fabric (Needlepunched) , thermally bonded fabric (Thermally Bonded) , chemically bonded fabric (Chemically Bonded) , hydroentangled (Hydroentangled or Spunlace ) , Airlaid, Wetlaid, Ultrasuede, Dinamica, Suede microfibre, suede eco-leather, regenerated leather fabrics, synthetic suede fabrics, Alcantara .

[0049] In a first aspect, the treatment of the present invention can be carried out on the fibre before the preparation of the fabric or of the non-woven fabric .

[0050] For the purposes of the present invention, the treatment can be carried out by means of one or more techniques, such as, for example : brushing, by roller, by aerosol, impregnation, nebulisation, deep-coating, exhaustion, painting, immersion, spreading, sponging, spray, electrospray.

[0051] In a second aspect, the treatment of the present invention can be carried out on the fabric or on the non-woven fabric .

[0052] In particular, the treatment can be carried out before or together with or after the dyeing step carried out through discontinuous methods (exhaustion) or semi-continuous or continuous methods (padder application) .

[0053] The treatment can be carried out in hank machines (cabinets, arm machines ) , machines for rope fabrics (jet) , machines for open-width fabrics (beam dyeing machine, j igger) .

[0054] In particular, the treatment can be carried out before or together with or after the finishing step .

[0055] In particular, the treatment can be applied before, after or together with waterproofing steps , flame-retardant steps , to render the fabric stain-resistant, antibacterial and antifungal, reinforcing steps , softening steps .

[0056] In particular, the treatment can be applied before, after or together with the hydrophilic finishing step (to improve moisture absorption) , oilrepellent finishing step (to repel oils and fats ) , anti-pilling treatment (reduction of the formation of surface pills ) , aged effect ( stone wash, enzyme wash to obtain a worn appearance ) , polishing (application of waxy or similar layers for extra brightness ) .

[0057] In particular, the treatment can also be carried out on the textile product (for example a garment or a fabric remnant or a bobbin) .

[0058] In a second object, the finished products having antimicrobial properties obtained with the method of the invention are described .The present invention contemplates the following finished products : - technical work clothing : work overalls ( uniforms and aprons , tie and bow tie , enbloc or dungarees ) , work trousers (with reinforcements , multiple pockets or integrated knee pads ) , shirts ( t-shirts , polo shirts , cotton shirts or technical fabric shirts ) , work j ackets (windproof , waterproof , oils kin or padded) , vests (multi-pocket vests , high-visibility vests ) , protective equipment ( reinforced or insulating work gloves , safety helmet , mas ks and visors , flame-retardant or antistatic overalls , protective earmuffs , lumbar belts ) ; sports clothing : tracksuits , sports shirts ( t-shirts , polo shirts , technical shirts , kimono for martial arts ) , trousers ( shorts , technical long trousers , leggings ) , j ackets ( softshell , windproof j ackets , waterproof j ackets ) , technical underwear ( thermal shirts and trousers , sports bras , bathrobes and towels , swimsuits ) , socks ( sports or technical socks , compression socks ) , protections and coverings ( shin guards , gloves , bands , hats and visors , wristbands , caps , masks , life j acket , balaclava ) ; healthcare clothing for medical / laboratory environments : healthcare uniforms ( sets composed of tunics and cotton or breathable fabric trousers and aprons ) , gowns (white or coloured, often in fabric washable at high temperatures ) , caps ( disposable or reusable in fabric or synthetic material ) , mas ks ( surgical , FFP2 , FFP3 , depending on protection needs ) , laboratory coats ( splash-resistant , in cotton, polyester or materials resistant to chemical substances ) , full-body suits ( for example Tyvek suits or similar ) , headbands or hair ties , arm covers , bibs or protections for the chest and for the neck; ordinary casual clothing : t-shirts ( short-sleeved, long-sleeved, or sleeveless , in cotton or mixed materials ) polo shirts ( long-sleeved or short-sleeved) , shirts and sweatshirts (hooded hoodie , crew neck, wool or cotton sweaters ) , shirts ( long-sleeved or short-sleeved, in single material or in different material ) , tops ( tank tops , crop-tops , light blouses ) , light j ackets ( j eans , leather, Bomber ) , j eans ( s kinny, slim, straight , mom j eans ) , trousers ( chino , argo , linen or light cotton trousers ) , shorts (bermuda shorts , denim shorts , sports or casual ) , skirts (midi , mini , or long ) , outerwear ( trench, parka ) , cardigans ( long or short ) , blazers , underwear (briefs , boxers , bras ) , pyj amas .

[0059] - or publi c places covering material for f rni shing for private (publi c premises , sports centres) : sofas , armchairs , chairs , cushions , padding in general , benches , draperies and carpets , artificial flowers , moquette , including wall covering materials .- linen for private or publi c places : sheets , blankets and pillowcases for hospitals , nursing homes or retirement homes , clinics , medical practices , hotels ) ; pillows and padding ( down, polyester, non-woven fabric ) , towels ( cotton, microfibre ) , tablecloths and napkins ( also disposable ) .

[0060] - di sposable accessories : mas ks , hair nets , gauzes , bandages ( elastic in cotton mixed with elastic fibres , non-elastic in pure cotton, self-adhesive , tubular to fix dressings , compressive for the control of swelling or haemorrhages and kinesiological ) , surgical drapes , textile compresses for therapeutic or absorbent use , bands for immobilisation and rehabilitation, disposable pre-moistened or pre-treated wipes , disposable underwear .

[0061] - objects for domesti c or aestheti c use : cleaning cloths , multi-purpose cloths in absorbent fabric , cloths specific for the s kin ( e . g . make-up removal ) , hair bands , cosmetic compresses ( fabric coverings soaked with serums or creams ) .

[0062] - objects for newborns and childcare : muslin cloths , light cotton cloths to wrap newborns , washable nappies with layers of absorbent fabric, baby carrier bands .

[0063] industrial field: interior coverings ( seats in synthetic fabrics , microfibre , leather or imitation leather ) , mats ( in technical or synthetic fabrics ) , roof and door panel coverings , safety belts ( generally in nylon or polyester ) , various filters ( non-woven fabrics or synthetic fibres ) , coverings ( car covers in weather-resistant fabrics , seat covers , sunshades in reflective or blackout fabrics ) , conveyor belts (polyester, nylon, kevlar ) , transmission belts , sound-absorbing panels , bags for transport or collection, flexible windscreens , gaskets and insulating materials , protective cases , fabric nets for scaffolding or barriers .

[0064] In particular, said antimicrobial properties are against bacteria, yeasts , viruses .

[0065] Bacteria comprise Gram-positive bacteria selected from 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 and C . glucoronolyticum) , Staphylococcus ( 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 . humiferus , A . hyovaginalis , A . israelii , A. marimammalium, A. nasicola , A . odontolyticus , A. streptomycin! , A. suimastitidis , A. turicensis , A . urogenitalis , A . vaccimaxillae ) , Arthrobacter, Bifidobacterium ( B . actinocoloniiforme , B . adolescentis , B . aerophilum, B . aesculapii , B . bifidum, 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 . clostridiof orme , C . glycolicum, C . haemolyticum, C . histolyticum, C . intestinale , C . lactatif ermentans , C . perfringens , C . polysaccharolyticum, C . proteolyticum, C . saccharobutylicum, 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 ) .

[0066] Bacteria comprise Gram-negative bacteria selected from the group comprising : Campylobacteria ( C . coli , C . concisus , C . j ej uni , Campylobacter rectus ) , Arcobacteria (A . butzleri , A. cryaerophilus ) , Citrobacteria (C . amalonaticus , C . braakii , C . farmeri , 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 ) .

[0067] 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 and C . lusitaniae ) , Pneumocystis ( P . carinii ) , Penicillium ( P . chrysogenum, P . digitatum, P . expansum, P . italicum, P . marneffei , P . purpurogenum) , Blastomyces dermatitidis , Coccidioides (C . immitis , C . posadasii ) , Histoplasma capsulatum, Paracoccidioides brasiliensis, Stachybotrys chartarum.

[0068] In particular, the treatment method is a method comprising the use of a phenolic compound or a mixture of phenolic compounds .

[0069] For the purposes of the present invention, a phenolic compound shall be understood as a phenolic or polyphenolic compound ( in some cases both are indicated only as "phenolic" or "polyphenolic" , therefore as synonyms ) selected from the group comprising : simple phenols (molecules with a single benzene ring and containing only hydroxyl groups as substituents , for example phenol and hydroquinones ) , phenolic aldehydes (molecules containing both the phenolic group and the aldehyde group , for example vanillin ) , phenolic acids such as cinnamic acids , phenylamines ( amphoteric molecules containing a weakly acidic group and a strongly basic group , for example phenylalanine ) , phenolic compounds wherein the phenolic ring is linked to another benzene ring or to other heterocyclic compounds that have hydroxyl / lactonic / ketonic functional groups ( for example coumarins and xanthones ) , flavonoids consisting of two benzene rings connected by a three-carbon-atom chain which constitutes an oxygenated heterocyclic ring( for example catechins , flavanones, flavones, chaicones, flavanonols , flavanols, leucoanthocyanidin, anthocyanidin) , phenylpropanoids characterised by the presence of an aromatic ring with an aliphatic side chain of three carbon atoms (such as hydroxycinnamic acids and tannins ) . In particular, a phenolic compound can be selected from the group comprising : resveratrol, aloin, cynarin, epigallocatechin, tannic acid, caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydroxytyrosol, rosmarinic acid, narigenin, gallic acid, hesperitin, quinic acid, eleonolic acid, pinoresinol, luteolin, apigenin, tangeretin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, myricetin, eriodictyol, hesperetin, naringenin, theaflavin, thearubigins , daidzein, genistein, glycitein, pterostilbene , delphinidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, peonidin, cichoric acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid.

[0070] According to a particular aspect of the invention, a first constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected among the polyphenols belonging to the class of flavonoids .

[0071] In particular, such class comprises :

[0072] • isoflavones chemical structure based on a C15 skeleton of carbon atoms composed of two aromatic rings and one heterocyclic ring; one aromatic ring (ring A) is condensed with the heterocyclic ring (ring C) and the third (aromatic ring B) is linked to these . The difference with the structure of flavones lies in the bond at position 3 instead of 2 of ring B on ring C, some examples are Genistein, Daidzein and Coumestrol;

[0073] • flavones or flavonols: chemical structure based on a C15 skeleton of carbon atoms composed of two aromatic rings and one heterocyclic ring; one aromatic ring (ring A) is condensed with the heterocyclic ring (ring C) and the third (aromatic ring B) linked to ring C at position 2. Some examples are kaempferol, luteolin, quercetin, catechin, apigenin, hesperidin, rutin, cyanidin;

[0074] • anthocyanins: consisting of a benzene molecule fused with a pyran molecule (heterocyclic ring containing oxygen) , linked in turn with a phenyl group which can in turn be linked to different substituents . This complex molecule is called the flavylium cation which is the basic structure of all anthocyanins . Anthocyanins derive from the respective aglycones (anthocyanidins ) , from which they differ by the addition of a glycosidic group (a sugar) , as a rule at position R3 and / or R4 . Some examples are delphinidin, petunidin, cyanidin, malvidin, peonidin and pelargonidin;• flavanols: chemical structure derived from flavone characterised by a benzenic nucleus with a hydroxyl group ( -0H) and a C6-C3-C6 structure (composed of two benzene rings linked by a three-carbon-atom bridge) , some examples are theaflavin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, tannic acid;

[0075] • flavanones: compounds based on the structure of the carbon atom skeleton of the progenitor flavone, from the structural point of view the double bond between carbon 2 and carbon 3 is missing as compared with the latter, obtaining a compound in reduced form, some examples are naringenin, eriodictyol, hesperetin, galangin .

[0076] According to a particular aspect of the invention, a second constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected among the polyphenols belonging to the class of phenolic acids or of their derivatives .

[0077] Phenolic acids have a structure composed of a benzene ring (Cg) with a hydroxyl group (-0H) and a carboxylic group ( -COOH) which renders them acidic . They can be derived from benzoic acid (CgHsCOOH) or from cinnamic acid (CgH5CH=CHCOOH) . Some examples are : caffeic acid, ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, sinapic acid, gallic acid, benzoic acid, rosmarinic acid, chlorogenic acid, cynarin.

[0078] According to a particular aspect of the invention, a third constituent of the polyphenolic mixture can be selected among the polyphenols belonging to the class of stilbenes .

[0079] Stilbenes are composed of two benzene rings (CgHs) j oined by a =CH bond (a double bond between two carbon atoms ) . The basic structure is therefore a diphenylethylene, characterised by the chemical formula C6H5-CH=CH-C6H5 . Stilbenes can present various functional groups , such as -OH (hydroxyl) or -OCH3 (methoxyl) , on one or both aromatic rings . The position and the nature of these groups influence the chemical and biological properties of the compound . Stilbenes with hydroxylated (OH) groups are often more active as antioxidants . Some examples are resveratrol, pterostilbene, vinifeirna, trans-resveratrol, evodiamine .

[0080] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said mixture of polyphenols further comprises biomolecules consisting of multiples of the isoprenic unit, obtained from the reaction of multiple units of isopentenyl pyrophosphate and of dimethylallyl pyrophosphate . They can have a linear, cyclic or mixed linear and cyclic structure . When such molecules are modified with reactions such as to lead to the formation of functionalgroups containing atoms other than carbon, such as hydroxyl groups, carbonyl groups or groups containing nitrogen, they can be called terpenoids . Based on the number of isoprenic units contained (CsHs) such molecules can be included in the groups of : hemiterpenes, monoterpenes ( such as geranyl pyrophosphate, ocimene, myrcene, limonene, pinene, menthol, carvone, camphor, cineole) , sesquiterpenes ( such as farnesol, bisabolol, cadinol, selinol, vetiver, patchouli, abscisic acid) diterpenes (abietic acid, aphidicolin, cafestol, cembrene, ferruginol, forskolin, guanacastepene A, kahweol, labdane, lagochilin, sclarene, stemarene, steviol, taxadiene, tiamulinaf itolo , vitamin A) , sesterterpenes , triterpenes ( squalene, ambrein, onocerin, dammarenediol, euphol, tirucallol, lanosterol, lupeol, o-amyrin, taraxasterol, germanicol, cycloartenol ) , tetraterpenes and polyterpenes .

[0081] In an aspect of the invention, the mixture comprises caffeic acid . In an aspect of the invention, the one or more polyphenols are present in a concentration comprised between 0. 005% and 80% w / v.

[0082] In an aspect of the invention, the different polyphenols can be applied in single steps (pure solution) or in treatment steps that provide the use of specifically formulated mixtures of polyphenols .

[0083] In an aspect of the invention, the one or more terpenoids are present in a concentration comprised between 0. 001% and 80% w / v.

[0084] 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 .

[0085] Alternatively, part of the terpenoids can be mixed with the polyphenolic solution and part applied in subsequent steps as pure solution or mixture .

[0086] In a preferred aspect, said mixture of polyphenols or said mixture of polyphenols and terpenes is a solution .

[0087] In a preferred aspect, said solution can be provided concentrated and possibly appropriately diluted before being used, dehydrated, lyophilised, in suspension or in emulsion .

[0088] In a preferred aspect, said solution can be provided in liquid, semiliquid, gel, cream or powder form.

[0089] In an aspect of the invention, said mixture or solution is applied to a fibre or to woven fabric or to a non-woven fabric or to a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .In another aspect of the invention, said mixture or solution is used in the preparation or in the production or in the processing of a fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre .

[0090] Such use can comprise the inclusion of the mixture or solution in another mixture or solution used in the processing of fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre .

[0091] The mixture or solution of polyphenols can be included in a raw material or in a semi-finished product or in a paste or mass intended for the production of fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre .

[0092] Said raw material or semi-finished product or paste or mass can be subsequently heated, extruded or spun .

[0093] 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 parts of the body (endogenous factors ) .

[0094] According to a further aspect of the invention, the described method is capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of microorganisms that can come into contact following external environmental contamination (exogenous factors ) .

[0095] In a second aspect of the invention, the described method is microbicidal, at least on part of the microbial population.

[0096] In a third aspect of the invention, the described method does not increase the microbial population, at least as compared with a part of the microbial population .

[0097] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the described method is microbiostatic against the microorganisms with which a subsequent contact occurred .

[0098] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the described method is microbiostatic against the microorganisms with which a subsequent and repeated contact occurred.

[0099] In a fourth aspect of the invention, the described method is microbiostatic against the microorganisms with which a contact occurred with a microorganism of the environment or brought by the subject wearing the fabric .

[0100] In a further aspect of the invention, the described method maintains its activity also after washing of said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre .

[0101] In particular, such activity is completely maintained.In particular, such activity is partially maintained .

[0102] In particular, such activity is maintained sufficiently for the use of said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre .

[0103] In a sixth aspect of the invention, the described method prevents the development of unpleasant odours .

[0104] In a seventh aspect of the invention, the described method prevents the development of conditions and pathologies of the epidermis, such as : irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis , contact urticaria, atopic eczema aggravated by fabrics, mechanical acne or contact acne, contact folliculitis and systemic reactions with cutaneous manifestations .

[0105] In a further aspect of the invention, the described method prevents said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre from spreading microorganisms from one environment to another .

[0106] In a ninth aspect of the invention, the described method makes it possible not to increase the load or contamination of an environment into which such fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre or the footwear part is introduced.

[0107] In a second obj ect, the present invention describes a fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre, to which antimicrobial properties have been imparted .

[0108] Said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or a product made with such fibre are those described above .

[0109] In an aspect of the invention, the mixture used in the treatment is colourless or is slightly coloured.

[0110] In another aspect, the mixture used is such as not to alter the colouration of the fibre or of the woven fabric or of the non-woven fabric or of a product made with such fibre or the footwear part to which it is applied .

[0111] The invention will be described in greater detail in the experimental part herein below reported .

[0112] Validation of antimicrobial activity correlated to environmental contamination (exogenous factors)

[0113] To confirm the effectiveness of the treatment herein described with regard to the inhibition of environmental contamination, a specific experiment was set up . Samples consisting of different types of fabric, treated and untreated with the technology that is the objectof the patent,were voluntarily contaminated with a known concentration of a bacterial / fungal mixture . After incubation with such mixture, the percentage of live microorganisms present in the treated samples was compared with that in the untreated samples . The results were expressed as a percentage of microbicidal activity. The experimental protocol is reported below .

[0114] Preparation and treatment of the samples

[0115] Circular samples (diameter ~1.5 cm) were obtained from different types of fabric as listed below : COTTON, POLYAMIDE ( 85% polyamide + 15% elastane ) , POLYESTER ( 85% polyester + 15% elastane) . The samples thus produced were subjected to the treatment with 4 different types of polyphenolic mixtures as reported below in Table 1 :

[0116] Table 1 - Polyphenolic mixtures used for the test

[0117] MIXTURE COMPOUND 1 COMPOUND 2

[0118] [0.005%-50%] w / v [0.005%-50%] w / v

[0119] IP Theaflavin Gallic acid

[0120] 2P Tannic acid Caffeic acid

[0121] 3P Luteolin Cynarin

[0122] 4P Epi gall ocat echin Chlorogenic acid

[0123]

[0124] For each polyphenolic mixture, the treatment procedure provided for 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 .

[0125] The protocol is described below:

[0126] Condition (1) - the different polyphenolic solutions were prepared by dissolving the various powders in deionised water . It may be useful to add a percentage of alcohol comprised between 1% v / v and 90% v / v to facilitate the solubilisation of the powders . In the example case, isopropyl alcohol was chosen at a concentration of 15% v / v (ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol can also be used) . The discs were subjected to immersion in the different polyphenolic mixtures ( IP, 2P, 3P and 4P) at room temperature and away from sources of light / heat for a time comprised between 15 seconds and 5 hours ( STEP 1 ) . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was chosen . Subsequently, the samples were subj ected to washing cycles with deionised water which can be comprisedbetween a number of 2 and 10 and each having a duration of approximately 15 minutes . In the specific case, 2 washing steps were applied for a total of 30 minutes . Subsequently, the samples were placed individually in different mixtures of terpenoids as reported below in Table 2 :

[0127] Table 2 - Terpenoid mixtures used for the test

[0128] MIXTURE COMPOUND 1 COMPOUND 2

[0129] [0. 001%-25%] w / v [0 . 001%-25%] w / v

[0130] IT Geraniol Citral

[0131] 2T Citronellol Limonene

[0132] 3T Linalool Nerol

[0133] 4T Geraniol Nerol

[0134]

[0135] The terpenoid mixture was produced by dissolving the individual compounds in a percentage of alcohol comprised 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 alcohol, methyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol can also be used) . The missing part of deionised water was then added . The samples were subj ected to incubation in the different terpenoid mixtures (Tl , T2 , T3 and T4 ) at room temperature and away from sources of light / heat for a time comprised between 15 seconds and 5 hours ( STEP 2 ) . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was chosen . Subsequently, the samples were subj ected to washing cycles with deionised water which can be comprised between a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 10 and each having a duration of approximately 15 minutes . In the specific case, 2 washing steps were applied for a total of 30 minutes . The samples thus treated were placed in a ventilated oven at a temperature comprised between 10 °C and 300 °C, in particular, in the specific case, a temperature of 38 °C was adopted for a time comprised between 5 seconds and 2 hours, in the specific case 30 minutes, in order to dry their surfaces .

[0136] Condition (2) - The component belonging to the family of phenolic acids was dissolved in a percentage of alcohol comprised 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 alcohol, methyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol can also be used) . The terpenoid molecules were then added (as reported in Table 2 ) . In the portion of deionised water, the substances belonging to the group of flavonoids and / or stilbenes were instead solubilised for the constitution of the mixtures as indicated in Table 1. The alcoholic portion and the aqueous portion were then combinedinto a single solution. The discs were subjected to immersion in the individual different mixtures of polyphenols + terpenoids at room temperature and away from sources of light / heat for a time comprised between 15 seconds and 5 hours . Specifically, a reaction time of 1.5 hours was chosen . Subsequently, the samples were subjected to washing cycles with deionised water which can be comprised from a minimum of 2 to a maximum of 10 and each having a duration of approximately 15 minutes . In the specific case, 4 washing steps were applied for a total of 60 minutes . The samples thus treated were placed in a ventilated oven at a temperature comprised between 10 °C and 300°C, in particular, in the specific case, a temperature of 38 °C was adopted for a time comprised between 5 seconds and 2 hours, in the specific case 30 minutes, in order to dry their surfaces .

[0137] Test for the evaluation of microbicidal activity

[0138] 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 .

[0139] At the end of the incubation, the specimens were collected and rinsed in isotonic solution to remove weakly adhered microorganisms . In a new sterile tube, the samples were analysed to evaluate the presence of live microorganisms on the surface . The presence of bacteria was verified by means of the formation of blue coloration of the development liquid and in any case by reading the absorption spectrum. Negative internal control given by a sterile swab .

[0140] The principle of the adopted test is based on the presence of bacterial peroxidase which catalyses the conversion of colourless 3 , 5 , 3 ' , 5 ' -tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) into oxidised TMB visible thanks to a blue colour change in the presence of H2O2. The colour change is measured through the execution of an absorption spectrum ( 200 nm - 800 nm) .

[0141] Results

[0142] The data are reported below as percentage of microbicidal activity, obtained by comparison between the treated samples and the untreated samples . Considering the bacteria found in the untreated samples as the maximum number capable of colonising the surfaces ( 100% ) , after obtainingthe results on the samples treated with the different modalities , the percentage of microbicidal activity was calculated and reported in Table 3 and 4 .

[0143] Table 3 - Condi tion (1)

[0144] Example STEP 1 STEP 2 MICROBICIDAL ACTIVITY % la IP IT 85 . 3% ± 2 . 1%

[0145] 2a IP 2T 77 . 3% ± 7 . 3%

[0146] 3a IP 3T 84 . 6% ± 5 . 9%

[0147] 4a IP 4T 89 . 4 % ± 8 . 8%

[0148] 5a 2 P IT 89 . 6% ± 0 . 2%

[0149] 6a 2 P 2T 83 . 6% ± 5 . 5%

[0150] 7a 2 P 3T 80 . 9% ± 7 . 6%

[0151] 8a 2 P 4T 97 . 1% ± 3 . 1%

[0152] 9a 3P IT 57 . 8 % ± 2 . 2%

[0153] 10a 3P 2T 63 . 9% ± 1 . 3%

[0154] Ila 3P 3T 69 . 6% ± 7 . 1%

[0155] 12a 3P 4T 70 . 6% ± 6. 4%

[0156] 13a 4 P IT 75 . 4 % ± 2 . 5%

[0157] 14a 4 P 2T 79 . 2 % ± 3 . 6%

[0158] 15a 4 P 3T 84 . 1% ± 6. 8%

[0159] 16a 4 P 4T 82 . 8 % ± 2 . 2%

[0160]

[0161] Table 4 - Condi tion (2)

[0162] Example MIXTURE MICROBICIDAL ACTIVITY % lb IP + IT 83 . 4% ± 8 . 7 %

[0163] 2b IP + 2T 80 . 3% ± 3 . 1%

[0164] 3b IP + 3T 81 . 1% ± 6 . 2 %

[0165] 4b IP + 4T 85 . 5% ± 3 . 7 %

[0166] 5b 2 P + IT 88 . 1% ± 1 . 1%

[0167] 6b 2 P + 2T 79 . 1% ± 4 . 2 %

[0168] 7b 2 P + 3T 85 . 7 % ± 2 . 8 %

[0169] 8b 2 P + 4T 96. 9% ± 6 . 1%

[0170] 9b 3P + IT 63 . 8 % ± 1 . 6%

[0171] 10b 3P + 2T 66. 2% ± 2 . 4 %

[0172] 11b 3P + 3T 72 . 3% ± 2 . 3%

[0173] 12b 3P + 4T 69 . 9% ± 9 . 5%

[0174] 13b 4 P + IT 69 . 4 % ± 5 . 6%

[0175] 14b 4 P + 2T 97 . 5% ± 1 . 7 %

[0176] 15b 4 P + 3T 81 . 6% ± 3 . 2 %

[0177] 16b 4 P + 4T 84 . 7 % ± 1 . 1%

[0178]

[0179] The treatment that provides for the incubation of the samples in the polyphenolic mixtures reported in Table 1 followed by a second incubation in the terpenoid mixtures reported in Table 2 ( Condition ( 1 ) ) rather than the incubation of the samples in a single polyphenol / terpenoid mixture(Condition ( 2 ) ) showed a significant antimicrobial activity as compared with the untreated samples .

[0180] The treatment proved to be capable of ensuring a microbicidal activity capable of eliminating up to 99. 6% ± 0.2% of the bacteria / f ungi following exogenous contamination of the sample .

[0181] Evaluation of the effect of the antibacterial treatment applied to textile products , including non-woven fabrics , in accordance with standard UNI EN ISO 20743.

[0182] The standard is applicable to all textile products, including fabrics, wadding, yarns and material for clothing, bed linen, home furnishings and various products regardless of the type of antibacterial agent used (organic, inorganic, natural or artificial ) or of the method of application .

[0183] The samples were stored at room temperature and handled with disposable gloves and under a sterile hood in order to avoid possible contaminations . The determination of antibacterial activity was carried out on two bacterial strains : Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive ) ATCC 6538 and Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp . pneumoniae (Gram negative ) ATCC 4352. The inoculum was performed in sextuplicate for each bacterial strain .

[0184] The test was carried out following the Absorption Method : for each bacterial strain, sample (treated) and control (untreated) were inoculated with 1-3 x 105CFU / ml, in sextuplicate . Immediately after inoculation (TO ) , three samples and three controls were diluted [ 1 : 10 ] and shaken; subsequently, plate counting of the microbial load was carried out . The remaining samples and controls were incubated at 37 °C ± 1°C for 18 / 24 hours and at the end (T24 ) plate counting was carried out after dilution .

[0185] The counting of microorganisms at the different times (TO and T24 ) was carried out by inclusion in Tryptone Soya Agar with incubation for 24 hours at 37 °C ± 1°C . By correcting the number of colonies observed on the plates for the dilution factor, the value of CFU (Colony Forming Units ) / ml for each sample / control is obtained .

[0186] In order to judge the test effective, the following conditions must be satisfied :a) The inoculum must be 1-3 x 105CFU / ml;

[0187] b) The difference, expressed on the same logarithmic scale, of the number of bacteria obtained between the extreme values of the three controls , respectively at TO and at T24 , must be <1 ;

[0188] c) The difference, expressed on the same logarithmic scale, of the number of bacteria obtained between the extreme values of the three samples, respectively at TO and at T24 , must be <2 ;

[0189] d) The control growth value ( F) , obtained with the following formula, must be b 1 :

[0190] F = IgCt - IgCO

[0191] wherein

[0192] F is the growth value of the control fabric

[0193] IgCt is the common logarithm of the arithmetic mean of the number of bacteria obtained from the three controls after 18 / 24 hours of incubation

[0194] IgCO is the common logarithm of the arithmetic mean of the number of bacteria obtained from the three controls immediately after inoculation

[0195] Having satisfied the acceptability conditions of the test, the antibacterial activity value is calculated according to the following formula :

[0196] A = F - G = ( IgCt - IgCO) - (IgTt - IgTO) wherein

[0197] A is the antibacterial activity value

[0198] F is the growth value of the control fabric ( F = IgCt - IgCO ) G is the growth value of the sample (G = IgTt - IgTO )

[0199] IgTt is the common logarithm of the arithmetic mean of the number of bacteria obtained from the three antibacterial fabric samples after 18 / 24 hours of incubation

[0200] IgTO is the common logarithm of the arithmetic mean of the number of bacteria obtained from the three antibacterial fabric samples immediately after inoculation

[0201] The results are interpreted according to the following table (Annex F of the standard, maximum achievable level 8 ) :EFFECTIVENESS OF THE ANTIBACTERIAL ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY (A)

[0202] PROPERTY

[0203] 1 < A week

[0204] 2 < A < 3 important

[0205] A > 3 strong

[0206]

[0207] Preparation and treatment of the samples

[0208] Square-shaped samples were obtained from different types of fabric as listed below: COTTON, POLYAMIDE ( 85% polyamide + 15% elastane) , POLYESTER ( 85% polyester + 15% elastane ) . The samples thus produced were subj ected to treatment with the mixtures that gave the best results in Condition 2 of the previous experiment .

[0209] EXAMPLE MPT MIXTURE

[0210] 4b IP + 4T

[0211] 5b 2P + IT

[0212] 8b 2P + 4T

[0213]

[0214] 14b 4P + 2T

[0215] The treatment was carried out in conjunction with a fabric processing step included within the finishing steps . Specifically, the polyphenol + terpene mixtures (MPT) were used as solvent to constitute the final treatment solution of the fabric .

[0216] In particular, 3 different conditions were evaluated:

[0217] (a) MPT + silicone softener [50 g / 1] ;

[0218] (b) MPT + silicone softener [50 g / 1] + thermosetting acrylic copolymer [ 15 g / 1] ;

[0219] (c) MPT + natural resin fixing agent [20 g / 1] ;

[0220] The samples were then immersed in the finishing solution also containing the MPT for an interval comprised between 3 seconds and 5 hours , specifically an interval of 20 seconds was chosen, at room temperature . After immersion in the solution, the samples were pressed and dried at a temperature comprised between 20 °C and 300 °C, specifically a temperature of 120 °C was chosen. The test was then carried out according to ISO 20743 by comparing the treated samples with the untreated samples .

[0221] Resul tsThe treatment applied to different types of fabric together with a finishing step that provides for the presence of silicone, acrylic or natural resin compounds showed a significant antimicrobial activity as compared with the untreated samples ( Figures 1-4 ) .

[0222] The treatment proved to be capable of ensuring an A value according to the parameters of ISO 20743 up to 7. 6. This parameter corresponds to a microbicidal activity of 99. 999% .

[0223] Evaluation of the resistance of the treatment to washing.

[0224] The samples of the previous experiment were subjected to 15 consecutive washing cycles and subsequently were again subjected to the bacterial contamination test with bacterial strains : Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive ) ATCC 6538 and Klebsiella pneumoniae subsp . pneumoniae (Gram negative ) ATCC 4352 . The inoculum was performed in triplicate for each bacterial strain . The bacterial growth (before and after washing) in the treated samples was compared with that resulting from the untreated reference fabric samples . The results are reported below expressed as percentage of microbial removal :

[0225] FABRIC TYPE % MICROBIAL KILLING % MICROBIAL KILLING S. aureus after washing K. pneumoniae after washing Polyamide 97 . 2 91 . 7

[0226] Polyester 99. 5 99 . 5

[0227]

[0228] Resul ts

[0229] The treatment applied to different types of fabric together with a finishing step that provides for the presence of silicone or acrylic compounds showed a significant resistance to domestic washing as compared with the untreated samples, ensuring a removal of up to 99.5% of the bacteria .

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method for the treatment of a fibre or of woven fabric or of a non-woven fabric or of a product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric, such as to impart antimicrobial properties to said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric, said method comprising the steps of :a) applying or placing into contact a mixture based on polyphenols to said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric, and / orb) including a mixture based on polyphenols in another mixture or solution used in the processing of said fibre or woven fabric or nonwoven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric, and / orc) including a mixture based on polyphenols in a raw material or a semi-finished product or in a paste or in a mass intended for the production of said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .2 . The 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, flavanols, flavanones;ii) a second component, wherein said polyphenols are selected from the group comprising : phenolic acids or their derivatives ;iii ) a third component wherein said polyphenols are selected from the group comprising : stilbenes .

3. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said step a) and / or b) and / or c) further comprises the use of a mixture of terpenoids .

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein in said step a) and / or b) and / or c) a solution based on polyphenols is used which further comprises terpenoids .

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said method optionally comprises subjecting said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric ornon-woven fabric, to one or more washing steps with water or with an aqueous, alcoholic or hydroalcoholic solution .

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said one or more polyphenols are in a concentration comprised between 0. 005% and 80% (w / v) .

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims 3 to 6, wherein said one or more terpenoids are in a concentration comprised between 0. 001% and 80% (w / v) .

8. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said polyphenolic mixture and said mixture of terpenoids are independently of one another aqueous or alcoholic or hydroalcoholic mixtures .

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

10. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said mixture comprises caffeic acid .

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

12. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said mixture is concentrated and possibly appropriately diluted before being used or dehydrated, lyophilised, in suspension or emulsion .

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

14. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said step a) of application or contact can be carried out by one or more techniques selected from the group comprising : brushing, by roller, by aerosol, impregnation, nebulisation, deep-coating, exhaustion, painting, immersion, spreading, sponging, spray, electrospray.

15. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said step a) of application or contact can be carried out in one or more sub-steps, each independently of one another carried out for a time from 15 seconds to 5 hours .

16. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said step a) of application or contact can be carried out in one or more sub-steps, each independently of one another carried out for a time of 1.5 hours .

17. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said step a) of application or contact can be carried out in one or more steps, each independently of one another carried out at a temperature comprised between 10°C and 300°C .

18. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said steps a) , b) and c) are carried out in the dark or in any case in the absence of light .

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

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

21. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said antimicrobial properties are against microorganisms of the environment with which contact occurred or brought by a subject using said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .

22. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , wherein said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric made with said fibre according to the preceding claim is selected from the group comprising :-a fibre of natural origin selected from the group comprising : cotton, linen, hemp, nettle, ramie, sisal, coconut, broom, bamboo, kenaf , castor, vegetable silk, sisal, kapok, ramie, jute, straw, silk, byssus , wool, goose down, rabbit;-a fibre of artificial origin selected from the group comprising : rayon, viscose rayon, Cuprammonium rayon, Modal, cellulose diacetate, cellulose triacetate, viscose, Lyocell or Tencel, rubber or caoutchouc or synthetic fibres such as polyamide fibres , acrylic or modacrylic fibres , polyester, polypropylene fibres , polyvinyl chloride, elastomeric fibres, Nylon®, elastane or spandex, polyurethane, acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene .

23. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , which is carried out before or after or simultaneously with the dyeing step, finishing step, waterproofing step, flame-retardant step, to render the fabric stain-resistant, antibacterial and antifungal, reinforcing step, softening step, hydrophilic finishing step, oil-repellent finishing step, anti-pilling treatment step, aged effect step or polishing step .

24. The method according to any one of the preceding claims , which is further capable of preventing or reducing the adhesion of microorganisms to said fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric .

25. A fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric or product made with said fibre, woven fabric or non-woven fabric, to which antimicrobial properties have been imparted by means of the method according to any one of the preceding claims .

26. The fibre or woven fabric or non-woven fabric made with said fibre according to the preceding claim, which is selected from the group comprising :-a fibre of natural origin selected from the group comprising : cotton, linen, hemp, nettle, ramie, sisal, coconut, broom, bamboo, kenaf , castor, vegetable silk, sisal, kapok, ramie, jute, straw, silk, byssus , wool, goose down, rabbit;-a fibre of artificial origin selected from the group comprising : rayon, viscose rayon, Cuprammonium rayon, Modal, cellulose diacetate, cellulose triacetate, viscose, Lyocell or Tencel, rubber or caoutchouc or synthetic fibres such as polyamide fibres, acrylic or modacrylic fibres , polyester, polypropylene fibres , polyvinyl chloride, elastomeric fibres, Nylon®, elastane or spandex, polyurethane, acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene .

27. A finished product comprising a woven fabric or a non-woven fabric made with the fibre according to claim 25 or 26, wherein said finished product is selected from the group comprising :-technical work clothing, sports clothing, healthcare clothing for medical and laboratory environments , ordinary casual clothing;-covering material for furnishing for private or public places; -linen for private or public places;-disposable accessories ;-fabrics for domestic use;-products of the industrial field .

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