An In Vitro Analysis of Antibacterial Property of Mikania micrantha Leaves Extract as a Textile Finish with Crosslinking Agent and Its Washing Efficacy

Safe, durable and environmentally friendly antimicrobial textiles are in great demand in the market nowadays. The present investigation aims to assess antibacterial properties of Mikania micrantha leaf extract as a sustainable textile finish. The methodology utilized solvent extraction using pure methanol (100%) and application via pad-dry technique on various fabric types, supplemented with 7% citric acid as a crosslinking agent to enhance durability. The AATCC 90:2011 method was used to determine antibacterial activity of the treated fabrics against Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 7443). Standard techniques were used to characterize the pre- and post-treated textiles, including fabric weight, thickness, crease recovery angle, elongation, stiffness, tensile strength and SEM. The treated fabrics demonstrated a significant (p ≤ 0.05) inhibition zone: Eri/Cotton (21.22 mm) > Eri/Eri (19.00 mm) > Eri/Mulberry (18.67 mm). It was noted that these key physical attributes were not being adversely affected by the finish. Even after ten (10) washes, the fabrics were found to exhibit a significant (p ≤ 0.05) antibacterial activity in the order of Eri/Mulberry (11.22 mm) > Eri/Eri (10.22 mm) > Eri/Cotton (8.00 mm). The findings of the present study indicate that the invasive Mikania micrantha leaves extract has potential as a promising and safer alternative for antimicrobial finishing and its application in textile and medical industries, with a keen focus on mitigating environmental impact.