Antimicrobial Fabrics

Abstract

The disclosure features a fabric comprising polymer fibers and an antimicrobial system. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent and an agent binding the sequestering agent on surfaces of at least some of the polymer fibers. In some implementations, at least some of the sequestering agent remains on polymer fiber-surfaces after 50 cycles of laundering.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to antimicrobial fabrics, and more particularly to antimicrobial fabrics or fabric articles such as blankets, bed sheets, fitting sheets, pillow cases, privacy curtains, and others articles suitable for use in environments such as healthcare environments in which articles with antimicrobial properties are desirable.

BACKGROUND

Fabrics, such as blankets, used in medical healthcare environments, e.g., in hospitals and long-term care facilities, are often formed of woven or knit fabric, e.g., formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. These blankets can be quite heavy, and generally have only a relatively low value of CLO (a measure of thermal insulation wherein 1 CLO=0.155 m²K/W), and, accordingly, only a low CLO-to-weight ratio. By way of example only, a typical woven hospital blanket formed by standard textile procedures may have a weight of 10.3 oz/yd³, thickness of 0.086 inch, CLO of 0.467, and CLO-to-weight ratio of 0.045. Hospital blankets typically also have only a relatively short useful life, e.g., in some cases only a few months, after which repeated exposure to the harsh conditions of industrial laundering, including high temperatures, bleach, and high pH, causes the blankets to fall apart and disintegrate.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect of the disclosure, an antimicrobial fabric, e.g. suitable for use in a medical healthcare blanket, comprises a fabric of micro-denier polymer fibers having at least one raised surface, and an antimicrobial system applied to the fabric, the antimicrobial fabric having durable antimicrobial properties after at least 50 industrial laundering cycles (e.g., at 160° F. with alkali detergent and peroxide).

Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following additional features. The polymer of the polymer fibers is selected from among polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, and combinations thereof. The antimicrobial system has durable antimicrobial properties after at least 100 industrial laundering cycles, or after at least 150 industrial laundering cycles, or after at least 200 industrial laundering cycles. The fabric has a double face knit configuration with velour/velour finish surfaces. The antimicrobial system comprises an antimicrobial agent, a rechargeable sequestering agent isolating the antimicrobial agent, and a binding agent binding the sequestering agent to surfaces of the polymer fibers. The antimicrobial agent comprises peroxide. The sequestering agent is a complex of metal oxide, metal salt, metal peroxide, and hydrogen peroxide. The metal is selected from among the group of: zinc, magnesium, and zirconium. The metal salt is selected from among the group of: chloride, nitrate, acetate, and bromide. The rechargeable sequestering agent comprises zinc oxide, or zinc hydroxide, or zinc salt, e.g. zinc oxide and/or zinc salt. The sequestering agent is rechargeable by contact with peroxide antimicrobial agent. The binding agent comprises an acrylate (or polyurethane). The antimicrobial system comprises: an antimicrobial agent, and a rechargeable sequestering agent isolating the antimicrobial agent, the rechargeable sequestering agent being incorporated in the polymer fiber as micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are distributed throughout the cross section of the polymer fibers. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are distributed in a relatively greater concentration in an outer layer of the polymer fibers. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are exposed on an outer surface of the polymer fibers.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, a method for contributing to sanitary healthcare environment comprises: 1) providing an antimicrobial fabric, e.g. a medical healthcare blanket, as described above, having a predetermined enhanced level of antimicrobial protection, and 2) subjecting the antimicrobial fabric to frequent industrial laundering cycles including contact with an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, thereby to recharge antimicrobial protection provided by the antimicrobial fabrics to at least a predetermined minimum acceptable level, and 3) repeating step 2) for at least 50 industrial laundering cycles.

Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following additional features. The polymer of the polymer fibers is selected from among polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, and combinations thereof. The multiple industrial laundering cycles comprises at least 100 industrial laundering cycles, or at least 150 industrial laundering cycles, or at least 200 industrial laundering cycles.

According to another aspect of the disclosure, an antimicrobial fabric material, e.g. a medical healthcare blanket fabric material, comprises a fabric of micro-denier polymer fibers having at least one raised surface, and an antimicrobial system having durable antimicrobial properties after at least 50 industrial laundering cycles. Implementations of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following additional features. The antimicrobial system has durable antimicrobial properties after at least 100 industrial laundering cycles, or after at least 150 industrial laundering cycles, or at least 200 industrial laundering cycles. The antimicrobial system comprises: an antimicrobial agent, a rechargeable sequestering agent isolating the antimicrobial agent, and a binding agent binding the sequestering agent to surfaces of the polymer fibers.

Other implementation of this aspect of the disclosure can include one or more of the following additional features. The antimicrobial system comprises: an antimicrobial agent, and a rechargeable sequestering agent isolating the antimicrobial agent, the rechargeable sequestering agent being incorporated in the polymer fiber as micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are distributed throughout the cross section of the polymer fibers. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are distributed in a relatively greater concentration in an outer layer of the polymer fibers. The micro-dimensioned or nano-dimensioned particles of the rechargeable sequestering agent are exposed on an outer surface of the polymer fibers.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a fabric comprising polymer fibers and an antimicrobial system. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent and a binding agent binding the sequestering agent on surfaces of at least some of the polymer fibers. In some implementations, at least some of the sequestering agent remains on the surface of the at least some of the polymer fibers after 50 cycles of laundering.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a fabric comprising polymer fibers and an antimicrobial system. The polymer fibers comprise a polymer. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent dispersed within the polymer of at least some of the polymer fibers.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a fabric comprising yarns and an antimicrobial system. The yarns comprise a polymer and the antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent dispersed within the polymer of at least some of the yarns.

Implementations of the above fabrics can incorporate one or more of the following features. The polymer fibers comprise micro-denier fibers and comprise a polymer selected from among polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, nylon, and combinations thereof. The fabric has at least one raised surface, which can include a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern. The binding agent comprises an acrylate or polyurethane. The antimicrobial system comprises an antimicrobial agent having oxidizing property. The fabric comprises 100% polymer fibers. The polymer fibers constitute 50 wt % or more of the fabric. The fabric comprises cotton, and the polymer and fiber weight ratio is 50:50.

Implementations of the above fabrics can also incorporate one or more of the following features. The sequestering agent is dispersed randomly throughout a cross-section of the at least some of the polymer fibers. The polymer fibers comprise extrusion of the polymer and the sequestering agent dispersed throughout an entire cross section of the fibers. The polymer fibers comprise a polymer core and a sheath over the core and the sequestering agent is substantially in the sheath.

Implementations of the above fabrics can also incorporate one or more of the following features. The sequestering agent is dispersed randomly throughout a cross-section of the at least some of the yarns. The yarns are co-spun, comprising the polymer and the sequestering agent. The yarns comprise a core comprising the polymer and a sheath over the core and the sequestering agent is substantially in the sheath.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a curtain that comprises any one or more of the above fabrics.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a bedding sheet that comprises any one or more of the above fabrics. In some implementations, the fabric can be woven or knitted.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a mattress cover that comprises any one or more of the above fabrics.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a pillow case that comprises any one or more of the above fabrics.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a blanket that comprises any one or more of the above fabrics. In some implementations, the fabric comprises a knit with terry sinker loop and at least one raised surface in velour finish. The raised surface of the blanket can have a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a set of fabric articles that comprises a blanket, a pillow case, and a mattress cover, at least one of which comprises one or more of the above fabrics. In some implementations, the set of fabric articles also includes a bedding sheet and/or a curtain, e.g. a privacy curtain.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a method comprising applying an antimicrobial system to a fabric that comprises polymer fibers. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent and a binding agent. The antimicrobial system can be applied in the form of a slurry. The binding agent comprises an acrylate or polyurethane fabric comprises 100% polymer fibers. The fabric comprises 50 wt % or more polymer fibers. The fabric comprises cotton and the polymer fibers and cotton have a weight ratio of 50:50. At least one raised surface of the fabric is formed before or after the antimicrobial system is applied. The at least one raised surface comprises a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern. The antimicrobial system comprises an antimicrobial agent applied after the sequestering agent and the binder. The antimicrobial agent is applied during a laundering cycle.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a method comprising coextruding a polymer material and an antimicrobial system to form coextruded fibers; and forming a fabric comprising the coextruded fibers. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent. In some implementations, coextruding comprises forming the coextruded fibers with a core-sheath construction, and the sequestering agent is substantially within the sheath. In some implementations, coextruding comprises forming the coextruded fibers with the sequestering agent dispersed throughout a cross-section of the coextruded fibers.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a method comprising co-spinning a polymer material and an antimicrobial system to form co-spun yarns, and forming a fabric comprising the co-spun yarns. The antimicrobial system comprises a sequestering agent. In some implementations, co-spinning comprises forming the co-spun yarns with a core-sheath construction, and the sequestering agent is substantially within the sheath. In some implementations, co-spinning comprises forming the co-spun yarns with the sequestering agent dispersed throughout a cross-section of the co-spun yarns.

In another aspect, the disclosure features a method comprising: 1) providing a fabric article comprising any one or more of the above fabrics that provides a predetermined enhanced level of antimicrobial protection, 2) subjecting the fabric article to frequent industrial laundering cycles including contact with an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, thereby to recharge antimicrobial protection provided by the fabric article to at least a predetermined minimum acceptable level, and 3) repeating step 2) for at least 50 industrial laundering cycles. In some implementations, the multiple industrial laundering cycles comprises at least 100 industrial laundering cycles.

Implementations of this disclosure can incorporate one or more of the following advantages. For example, antimicrobial fabrics of this disclosure, e.g., in the form of a medical healthcare blanket, can be made of 100% synthetic fibers, such as nylon, polypropylene, and/or polyester or can be made of synthetic fibers blended with absorbing fibers, such as natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, etc.) or cellulosic fibers (e.g., rayon, Tencel, etc.). In some implementations, the polyester can be a micro-denier polyester polymer material, e.g., polyester, polypropylene, or polyamide, and the fabrics can have at least one raised surface and can be in a double face knit configuration, with velour/velour finish to offer, e.g.: relatively improved thermal insulation efficiency properties (e.g., a relatively higher CLO-to-weight ratio) as compared to conventional hospital blankets formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton; and/or can retain relatively less water, e.g. about 31% less, as compared to traditional hospital blankets formed of cotton or polyester and cotton blend, resulting in significantly shorter drying times during industrial laundering cycles, e.g. about 70% less, with commensurate reduction in energy costs; and/or can have a relatively longer usable life than traditional hospital blankets formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton.

The fabrics can be antimicrobial so that when used in hospitals or long-term care facilities (in the form of, e.g., bed blankets, bed sheets, pillows cases, curtains, drapes, etc., or others), the fabrics of this disclosure can serve as a first line of defense against transmission of disease and infection. In some implementations, an antimicrobial fabric, e.g. a medical healthcare blanket, of this disclosure can incorporate durable antimicrobial properties that assist patients to avoid contracting germs and/or bacteria, and thus create a more sanitary environment. Fabric articles in other forms, including, but not limited to, e.g., bed sheets, fitted sheets, pillow covers or cases, curtains (e.g., privacy curtains), and other fabric articles of the types typically used in an environment in which antimicrobial properties are desirable, can keep the entire environment surrounding a user at a reduced level, of even free, of infectious disease bacteria.

A chemical system that provides the fabrics with the antimicrobial properties can be applied in various ways and can be readily recharged or reloaded at a user's choice, e.g. at regular, planned intervals. The fabrics can remain antimicrobial after long term use and multiple cycles of industrial laundering. For example, the fabrics can be treated to include a sequestering agent and a binder that binds the sequestering agent to (or near) a surface of the fabrics and/or the fibers, with or without an active antimicrobial agent that is sequestered by the sequestering agent. The aesthetic properties and the thermal properties of the fabrics can be substantially unaffected by the application of the chemical system. In some implementations, the fabrics are treated without the active microbial agent and the user can choose to add the microbial agent at a preferred time or interval to activate the antimicrobial properties of the fabrics. In some implementations, the binder and the sequestering agent cause the active antimicrobial agent to be released at a controlled rate.

In another example, fiber or yarn materials are coextruded or co-spun with sequestering agents, with or without the active antimicrobial agents, to form fibers or yarns for formation of the fabrics. The sequestering agents (with or without the antimicrobial agents) can be distributed, e.g., substantially evenly, throughout a cross-section of a fiber or a yarn, or in a sheath of a fiber or a yarn, and can be secured to the fibers, yarns, and fabrics without binder. Extensive distribution of the sequestering agents at the level of individual fibers or yarns can provide desired antimicrobial properties to the fabrics, which can be activated, recharged, or reloaded in manners similar to those discussed above.

The sequestering agents are retained within the fabrics, e.g., through the binders and/or by being dispersed within fiber/yarn materials. The active antimicrobial agent can be recharged or reloaded multiple times to be sequestered by the retained sequestering agents, e.g., over the entire useful life of the antimicrobial fabric, during laundering cycles in which hydrogen peroxide is used, or at other times chosen by the user.

The details of one or more implementations of the disclosure are set forth in the accompanying drawings and in the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages of the disclosure will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an environment in which antimicrobial fabrics of the disclosure are used.

FIG. 2A is a schematic side section view of an antimicrobial fabric suitable for use in the environment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B is a somewhat diagrammatic side section view of an antimicrobial fabric suitable for use in fabric articles, such as medical healthcare blankets, in the environment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2C is a somewhat diagrammatic side section view of another antimicrobial fabric suitable for use in fabric articles, such as medical healthcare blankets or other medical healthcare articles, in the environment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 2D and 2F are somewhat diagrammatic side section views of two other antimicrobial fabrics.

FIG. 2E is a somewhat diagrammatic top view of the antimicrobial fabrics of FIGS. 2D and 2F.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are flow diagrams showing methods of forming antimicrobial fabrics having antimicrobial properties.

FIGS. 4A and 4B are schematic exploded views of fibers or yarns having antimicrobial properties.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, in a healthcare or similar environment 11, one or more fabrics or fabric articles including, e.g., a blanket 10 on a bed 12, one or more bed sheets 22, a pillow case 24 over a pillow 25, a floor covering 28, and a privacy or other curtain 26 desirably have antimicrobial properties. Among other things, these fabrics or fabric articles provide an environment with reduced amounts of undesirable bacteria and protect users from such bacteria. Although not shown, the environment 11 may also include other items, such as mattress cover and fitted sheets. Examples of the environment 11 include a medical healthcare environment (in which the blanket 10 is a medical healthcare blanket), e.g., in a hospital or other long-term patient care facility, hotels or motels, homes, and others. In some examples, the environment 11 may have another form, e.g., a public transportation environment, such as railroad cars or others that include fabric seat covers, etc. Sometimes the fabrics and fabric articles used in the environment may be subject to use by multiple different users.

Over time, the fabrics and fabric articles of the disclosure, e.g., the blanket 10, in use in the environment 11 undergo frequent and repeated industrial laundering cycles under extreme conditions, including of high temperature water, disinfecting agents (e.g., hydrogen peroxide or bleach), and high pH, for reasons of sanitation and in efforts to combat transmission of disease and other unhealthy conditions. The fabrics and fabric articles of this disclosure, although being repeatedly subject to these conditions, have a relative long useful life in which the effectiveness of the antimicrobial properties can be well maintained, recharged, or reloaded. The fabrics and fabric articles of the disclosure are also designed to be energy efficient.

Referring to FIG. 2A, a fabric 20, woven or knit, having antimicrobial properties and forming one or more of the fabric articles in the environment 11 of FIG. 1 can be made of 100% synthetic fibers, such as polyester (e.g., micro-denier polyester material), polypropylene, nylon, or polyamide, or combinations of these materials. In some implementations, the fabric 20 includes a blend of the synthetic fibers and absorbing fibers, such as natural fibers (e.g., cotton, wool, etc.) and cellulosic fibers (e.g., rayon, Tencel, etc.). As an example, the fabric 20 can include a blend of polyester and cotton at a weight ratio of about 90%:10% to about 10%:90%. In some implementations, a preferred weight ratio between the polyester and the cotton is about 50%:50%. The fabric articles can be made of the fabrics 20 having different compositions of materials and/or different constructions, depending on the desired characteristics of the particular articles. In some implementations, the fabric 20 of the disclosure may form one or more segments or elements of a fabric article, which also includes other types of fabrics.

As an example, the blanket 10 is formed of a suitable polymer or polymer blend, e.g. 100% or a high percentage of (higher than 50%) polyester, polypropylene, nylon, or polyamide, or combinations thereof. The polymer component of the blanket 10 allows the blanket to absorb less water during laundering and therefore to dry relatively more quickly and with less consumption of heat. The blanket 10 can also have a long use life because the polymer component is durable.

The blanket 10 can have at least one raised surface in a double face knit configuration. In the example shown in FIG. 2B, a fabric portion of the blanket 10 has a knit body 14 and velour/velour finish surfaces 16, 18 on both surfaces 15, 17 of the body 14. The double face knit fabric can be formed, e.g., in reverse plating terry sinker loop circular knit, double needle bar warp knit, or brushed woven. Double face circular knit fabrics can be produced by raising (e.g., napping) or by cut loop (off-line or on the knitting machine) of terry sinker loop fabric. The raised surface yarn (or pile yarn) of the fabric can be polyester flat yarn, e.g. round, trilobal, delta, or other profile, or textured yarn. The pile yarn can also be broader than microdenier fibers (e.g., 0.3 dpf to 3.0 dpf).

Referring to FIG. 2C, a fabric portion of a blanket 10′ of the disclosure may have a knit body 14′ with only a single raised or fleece surface 16′. The blanket 10′ can also be formed of a blend of polyester (or other suitable polymer) and natural fibers (e.g., cotton).

The fabric of blanket 10 can also have other constructions. For example, referring to FIGS. 2D-2F, a fabric portion 19 of the blanket 10 has a terry sinker knit construction with a body 31 having a raised surface 21 in a grid pattern 23 (pillar regions of relatively higher pile surrounded by regions of low or no pile). The pattern 23 can be over the entire surface 21 of the fabric 19 or within selected regions 25 of the surface 21. Referring to FIG. 2D, the grid pattern 23 is formed of raised loop yarns 27 (e.g., terry sinker loop) or piles (e.g., high pile, low pile) 27 separated by tip-less sinker loop or no loop yarns 29 or low pile or no pile 29. The grid pattern 23 can also have other forms. For example, the grid pattern 23 of 2F is a mirror image of the grid pattern 23 of FIG. 2D (regions of low or no pile surrounded by relatively higher pile, or a reverse grid). Other patterns can also be formed. The fabric portion 19 can also have a raised surface on both surfaces of the body 31. The grid patterns are also described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,298,645, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The fabric portion 19 can also have other patterns, such as jacquard patterns.

The fabrics shown in FIGS. 2B-2F can also be used in other fabric articles in the environment 11, such as pillow case 24, privacy curtain 26, etc. In some implementations, fabric articles containing fabrics having features of FIGS. 2D-2F can have advantages. For example, the fabric articles can have good packability with reduced volumes compared to a fabric having a plain raised surface, for storage, shipping, and laundering (e.g., wet laundry and the drying segment of industrial laundering cycles). Also, relatively little water will be entrapped during the extraction stage (which is the last step of the wet laundry before getting into the dryer). Compared to a plain fabric without any raised surface or with a plain raised surface, the fabric articles can also provide an improved thermal insulation to the weight ratio. The pattern of the raised surface with pile/velour (in a grid or any jacquard pattern) can mask creases or pile distortion, which could happen during the laundering cycles or at other times. The aesthetic appeal of the fabric articles is maintained without additional labor, e.g., for ironing. Furthermore, the pattern of the raised surface with pile/velour can reduce the drag or Velcro effect when the fabric articles are being unfolded or untangled to their spread form.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial fabrics and fabric articles can be woven, e.g., basket weave, twill, satin, simple weave, etc., or knitted, e.g., single jersey, plated jersey, double knit, etc. The fabrics and fabric articles can be stretchable. For example, mattress covers or other fitted sheets can be stretchable for fitting.

Referring again to FIG. 2A, the fabric 20 carries one or more oxidizing agents that provide the antimicrobial properties. In some implementations, the oxidizing agents are in a chemical system of the fabric 20, which includes one or more sequestering agents, one or more binders that bind the sequestering agents to one or more surfaces of the fabric 20, and/or to yarns and/or fibers forming the fabric 20, and one or more active antimicrobial agents that are sequestered by the sequestering agent. In other implementations, the fabric 20 may not necessarily contain any binder or the active antimicrobial agent (as explained below). In some implementations, the weight ratio of the binder to the sequestering agent can be about 10:1 to about 0.2:1, for example, about 2:1.

In some implementations, suitable sequestering agents may include one or more of, e.g., metal oxide and metal salt, for example, zinc oxide, zinc acetate, zinc chloride, and others. Suitable binders can include acrylate, polyurethane, and others. The active antimicrobial agent can include hydrogen peroxide, Zinc peroxide, and others. Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that within the chemical system, one or more binders bind the sequestering agents to surfaces of the individual fibers (such as polyester fibers). The active antimicrobial agents, such as hydrogen peroxide, are sequestered by the sequestering agent to produce an oxidizing agent in the form of an insoluble complex to slowly release the antimicrobial agent in a slightly moist or humid condition. In some implementations, the binders can regulate release of the antimicrobial agent or oxidizing agent by providing required moist or humid release conditions. Again, not intending to be bound theory, it is also believed that the sequestering agent, such as zinc oxide or zinc salt, can react with hydrogen peroxide to produce oxidizing agents, such as zinc peroxide, to act as a disinfectant that kills bacteria. In some implementations, the bound sequestering agents adhere to the fibers or fabrics after long time use, e.g., including 10, 50, or 100 times or more industrial or home laundering cycles. The adhesion of the sequestering agents allows the active antimicrobial agents to be reloaded or recharged, and therefore, maintains the antimicrobial properties of the fabrics or fabric articles for a long time (details explained below).

The fabric 20 containing the chemical system can be made in various ways. For example, in some implementations, referring to FIG. 3A, the chemical system is applied to a pre-finished fabric in a procedure 30. In particular, a fabric body, such as the body 14, 14′ of FIGS. 2B, 2C, is manufactured (step 32), e.g., knitted or woven. Next, the process 30 considers (step 34) whether or not the fabric has any raised surface to be formed. If “yes”, the surface(s) is raised (step 36), e.g., by napping and/or shearing, before the chemical system is applied (step 38) to the fabric. If “no”, the chemical system is applied (step 38) to the fabric body.

The chemical system applied to the fabric or fabric body can be in the form, e.g., of a dispersion or slurry of the sequestering agents (e.g., zinc oxide, zinc peroxide, and/or insoluble zinc salts) with the binders, and with or without the active antimicrobial agents. In some implementations, the applied chemical system does not include the active antimicrobial agents. Instead, the fabric is inactive until a user or a manufacturer adds the antimicrobial agents to activate the fabrics at a later time. The inactive fabrics can be stored for an extended period, or can be processed (e.g., made into different articles) before being activated. The user or manufacturer can choose to activate the fabrics at a desired time with a selected type and amount of antimicrobial agents, thereby to provide a desired level of antimicrobial properties.

In some implementations, a fabric body containing the binder(s) may resist being raised. In the procedure 30, the chemical system including the binder(s) is added to the pre-finished fabric without affecting the desired physical (e.g., raised surface or surfaces), thermal, and aesthetic appearance of the fabric 20. The antimicrobial agent(s) adheres to individual fibers of the fabric 30 and provides maximum efficacy.

In some implementations, the antimicrobial chemical system can also be applied before any of the fabric surfaces is raised, e.g., when the fabric has the terry sinker loop knit construction or when the fabric is a woven fabric made of coarse yarns that are 100% synthetic or a blend of natural fiber like cotton, rayon and synthetic fibers.

In some implementations, the process 30 can also be applied to fabrics having components different from those of the fabric 20. For example, the chemical system can be applied to traditional blankets, e.g., used in healthcare environments, that contain a blend of polyester and cotton at a weight ratio of 50:50. The blankets can be woven with coarse yarns that are not brushed. However, the blankets may have an abraded surface, e.g., occurred during use or laundering, that becomes similar to a raised surface discussed above. The blankets can also be brushed before laundering to form one or more raised surfaces. Such traditional blankets treated with the chemical system can have one or more advantages discussed for the fabric 20 and other fabric articles. For example, among others, the binders bind and retain the sequestering agents on the blankets during use and laundering cycles, and the antimicrobial agents can be recharged by adding active agents at selected times.

Alternatively, the fabric 20 can also be made using a process 40 shown in FIG. 3B. In particular, instead of applying the chemical system to a pre-finished fabric, the process 40 forms (step 42) fibers and/or yarns with a chemical system and form (step 44) the fabric 20 including such fibers and/or yarns. Although not shown in the figures, in some implementations, the fabric formed in step 44 can further be treated following steps similar to those of the process 30.

The fibers and/or yarns can be made by coextruding or co-spinning one or more fiber/yarn materials (e.g., synthetic polymers) and components of the chemical system. For example, the sequestering agents in the form of metal oxide particles or powders (e.g., zinc oxide particles or powders) are added into polymer chips (e.g., polyester chips) that are used for forming the fibers. Alternatively, the sequestering agents can be added directly into an extrusion machine when the fibers are being extruded. The antimicrobial agents can be added with the sequestering agents, or at a later time, as discussed previously. In some implementations, it is not necessary to include any binding agent to bind the sequestering agents to the fibers or yarns. Instead, when co-spun or coextruded, the sequestering agents and the fiber/yarn materials are well mixed or integrated, examples of which are schematically shown in FIGS. 4A-4B. The sequestering agents can be retained within the fiber/yarn materials for a long time, e.g., including after many (10, 50, 100, 200, or more) industrial or home laundering cycles and allow the fabrics or fabric articles can be recharged with antimicrobial agents or oxidizing agents during the long time use.

Referring to FIG. 4A, the fibers are in a form 46 in which the chemical system 47 (including one or more sequestering agents, with or without one or more antimicrobial agents, and with or without one or more binders) is concentrated in a sheath 50 over a fiber core 52. To form the fiber 46, the chemical system and the fiber material can be extruded or spun in a core-sheath cross-section construction. Alternatively, referring to FIG. 4B, the fibers have a different form 48 in which the sequestering agent 54 is distributed, e.g., evenly distributed, throughout the fiber material 56 along the length of the fiber and/or in the cross-section of the fiber. The fibers can have other forms as well. In some implementations, yarns forming the fabric 20 of FIG. 2A have forms similar to the forms 46, 48.

The fibers, yarns, fabrics, and fabric articles described above can incorporate a chemical system, including one or more sequestering agents, with or without the binder or the antimicrobial agent, in the form of particles, e.g., nano or micro-sized particles, on surfaces and/or in bodies of individual fibers. The materials can provide antimicrobial properties by releasing the antimicrobial agent and/or an oxidizing agent over an extended period of time and maintaining the properties under harsh laundering conditions. In addition, the materials can be recharged with antimicrobial agents (and the oxidizing agents) after initial use. For example, hydrogen peroxide is a common oxidizer or bleach disinfectant used in industrial laundering cycles. Accordingly, during each laundering cycle, the antimicrobial agent (and the oxidizing agent) is automatically recharged or reloaded (to be sequestered by the sequestering agents in the fibers, yarns, fabrics and fabric articles), commercially or at a consumer level. In some implementations, after initial use, additional antimicrobial agents can be added during the laundering cycles, or at other times. Other disinfectant oxidizing agents, such as Para acetic acid, can also be added to reload or recharge the antimicrobial agents or oxidizing agents.

In some implementations, the fibers of the fabrics or fabric articles, e.g., as shown in FIG. 1, may be treated with an antistatic chemical to reduce electrostatic build up (which can be annoying to a user, e.g. due to uncomfortable static discharge, and/or which can interfere with operation of medical and/or communications devices in the vicinity). An example of a commercial antistatic chemical for treating fabric is Lurotex A25 (a nonionic polyamide derivative available commercially from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, of Ludwigshafen, Germany), applied, e.g., at 2% to 4%.

The fabrics and fabric articles, such as the medical healthcare blanket 10, in the environment 11 described above can provide advantages, e.g., when compared to conventional or traditional medical healthcare blankets formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. For example, the blanket 10 (and/or other fabric articles of the disclosure) exhibits improved thermal insulation properties. The fabric articles of the disclosure can also have relatively low water retention, a relatively long usable life, and antimicrobial properties for resisting transmission of disease and other medical conditions. All of these features are discussed in more detail below, using the medical healthcare or other blanket 10 as an example. The other fabric articles, such as bedding (top or fitted) sheet 22, privacy curtain 26, floor covering 28, and others (shown or not shown in the figures) can also have one or more of the features/advantages described below.

The blanket 10 of the disclosure has relatively better thermal insulation efficiency properties than conventional blankets (e.g., traditional hospital blankets) made from cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. For example, the blanket 10 of the disclosure has CLO of 0.812 (compared to CLO of 0.467 for a traditional hospital blanket) and a CLO-to-weight ratio of 0.140 (compared to 0.045 for traditional hospital blankets). The blanket 10 is also thicker, e.g. having a thickness, T, of about 0.154 inch (as compared to a thickness of about 0.086 inch for a traditional hospital blanket). The blanket 10 of the disclosure is also relatively lighter in weight than traditional hospital blankets. For example, the blanket 10 of the disclosure may weigh about 5.8 ounces/yard² as compared to about 10.3 ounces/yard² for a traditional hospital blanket. In combination, these features allow the blanket 10 to provide a user with increased comfort. The blanket has a relatively light weight, provides increased warmth and insulation with the thicker and thermally more efficient materials, while also providing durable antimicrobial properties that contribute to a relatively more sanitary environment through enhanced resistance to contracting germs and/or bacteria.

The blanket 10 of the disclosure also retains much less water during laundering, e.g. as compared to traditional hospital blankets formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. For example, the blanket 10 of the disclosure retains about 31% less water as compared to a traditional hospital blanket formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. As a result, the drying time for the blanket 10 following laundering is approximately 70% of that required for drying a traditional hospital blanket of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton. The reduced water retention properties, resulting in shorter drying times, have the additional, particularly beneficial, effect of significantly lowering energy consumption and costs.

The blanket 10 of the disclosure can include micro-denier polymers materials and can have relatively greater longevity (i.e., longer useful life), e.g. as compared to traditional hospital blankets formed of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton, through repeated industrial laundering cycles under harsh conditions, including high water temperatures and exposure to bleach and high pH environments. For example, a traditional hospital blanket made of cotton or a blend of polyester and cotton can be expected to degrade and disintegrate to a point of being unusable within just a few months of first use. In contrast, the blanket 10 of the disclosure, formed of micro-denier polymer material, can be expected to have significantly longer usable life, e.g., extending to 12 months or longer. Additionally, forming the blanket 10 with a polyester material allows the blanket to be provided in a range of colors that remain stable (e.g., will not substantially fade or become discolored) during repeated industrial laundering cycles. As an example of providing antimicrobial properties, the blanket 10 is made to reduce or minimize transmission of drug resistant germs, e.g. MRSA (Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus). For example, the blanket 10 of the disclosure has been developed with a capacity for killing GRAM-positive and/or GRAM-negative bacteria, even after numerous industrial laundering cycles. In the antimicrobial performance tests described in more detail below, a sample blanket of the disclosure continued to show an acceptable level of antimicrobial performance after 50 industrial laundering cycles. Similar performance is projected for antimicrobial fabrics of the disclosure, e.g., after at least 100 industrial laundering cycles, or after at least 150 industrial laundering cycles, or after at least 200 industrial laundering cycles. The blanket 10 can serve as a first line of defense in a hospital, healthcare facility, or other environments, protecting users, and potentially others working in or visiting the environment, from contact transmission, droplet transmission, airborne transmission, etc. The blanket 10, having a raised surface of, e.g., polyester fiber, and containing antimicrobial agents for killing GRAM-positive and/or GRAM-negative bacteria, can provide an important enhancement to reducing nosocomial infections, such as MRSA and/or klebsiella pneumonia.

Examples of types of antimicrobial agents are described, e.g., in “Disinfection, Sterilization, and Preservation”, edited and partially written by Professor Seymour S. Block, Fourth Edition, published 1991 by Lea & Febiger, Pennsylvania, and in “Recent Advances in Antimicrobial Treatments of Textiles”, Y. Gao and R. Cranston, TEXTILE RESEARCH JOURNAL Vol. 78(1), p 60-72 (2008), a review of antimicrobial treatment of textiles. The complete disclosures of both references are also incorporated herein by reference. Described below are examples of a few categories of antimicrobial agents that can be applied to polyester and other polymeric fibers of the fabric articles to reduce transmission of infectious disease in the environment where the fabric articles are employed. In the discussion above and below, the blanket 10 is used as an example. The other fabrics and fabric articles in the environment 11 of FIG. 1 or in other environment not shown can have similar or the same features and advantages.

(Zinc) Peroxide Antimicrobial Agents

In one implementation, a blanket 10 of the disclosure is treated with zinc oxide, zinc hydroxide, zinc peroxide, and/or zinc salt (which has very low solubility and, by itself, has mild antimicrobial properties), e.g. zinc oxide and/or zinc salt, to create a system for providing a peroxide antimicrobial agent, e.g. as described in Toreki et al. U.S. Patent Publication No. 2011/0171280, published Jul. 14, 2011 (U.S. Pat. No. 8,277,827, issued Oct. 2, 2012), and assigned on its face to Quick-Med Technologies, Inc., of Gainesville, Fla., the complete disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In particular, during spinning of the polyester fibers that will be formed, e.g., by knitting, into the blanket 10 of the disclosure, sequestering agents, e.g. zinc oxide, zinc hydroxide, zinc peroxide, and/or zinc salt, e.g. zinc oxide and/or zinc salt, are added to the polymeric blend, along with a binding agent, e.g. an acrylate (or polyurethane). The sequestering agent can be a complex of metal oxide, metal salt, metal peroxide, and hydrogen peroxide. The metal can be zinc (or magnesium or zirconium). The metal salts can contain chloride or nitrate (or acetate or bromide). The complex has low solubility and it is deposited on the textile fabric or entrapped within the binder. In the blanket 10 (or other article), the binding agent on the surfaces of the polyester or other polymeric fibers then serves to secure the sequestering agents, e.g. against early dislodgement during repeated industrial laundering cycles. The binder, based, e.g., on acrylate, can entrap peroxide and contributes to the antimicrobial property. The binder binds the metal oxide, metal peroxide, and/or metal salt to increase antimicrobial durability to withstand industrial laundering cycles. The sequestering agents, in turn, serve to sequester (or immobilize) the antimicrobial agent, i.e. the peroxide, on the surfaces of the blanket fibers, thereby to provide durable antimicrobial protection.

In another implementation, the blanket 10 is formed of polyester, polypropylene, or polyamide (or other suitable polymer or polymer blend) fibers that incorporate particles of sequestering agent, e.g. zinc oxide and/or zinc salt, of small characteristic dimension, e.g. particles of micro or nano dimension. The zinc oxide and/or zinc salt particles may be added to feed of polymer chips or polymer melts during extrusion of the polymer fibers. In this manner, the zinc oxide and/or zinc salt particles are distributed (e.g., randomly) throughout the cross section of the fiber.

Alternatively, a relatively greater distribution or concentration of particles of sequestering agent (zinc oxide and/or zinc salt) can be preferentially provided in an outer (sheath) layer of the polymer fibers, and/or even exposed on the outer surface of the polyester fibers. For example, the polymer fibers formed, e.g., using core/sheath spinning technology may have the form of bicomponent fibers having an outer sheath with a relatively high concentration of zinc oxide and/or zinc salt particles, and an inner core with a relatively lower concentration of, or little or no, zinc oxide and/or zinc salt particles.

As described above, the blanket 10 having polyester polymer fibers incorporating particles of zinc oxide and/or zinc salt, e.g., on the surface, in the outer layer, and/or distributed throughout the cross section, can be treated with a disinfecting agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or percarboxylic acid, to produce a complex system of zinc oxide and/or zinc salt, zinc peroxide (generated by exposure of the zinc oxide and/or zinc salt to the hydrogen peroxide), as well as the hydrogen peroxide sequestered at a controlled pH on the surface of the textile fabric, e.g. the fibers of a raised surface blanket or linen. For example, the disinfecting agent may be applied to the fabric, e.g. in a textile mill, during an industrial laundering cycle, or as a separate step before or after the industrial laundering cycle. The treated blanket 10, after this hydrogen peroxide recharging or reloading process, will typically have good antimicrobial properties and with high durability.

During extended use and repeated industrial laundering cycles, the antimicrobial properties and capabilities of the blanket 10 can be expected to degrade as the antimicrobial agent becomes depleted, e.g. is washed or worn away. However, according to the present disclosure, industrial laundering of the blanket 10, with application of an aqueous solution including hydrogen peroxide, which is routinely used as a disinfecting agent, including processing in a textile mill (during industrial laundering, or separately, before or after laundering), serves to recharge the sequestering agents with peroxide from the laundering solution, thus restoring the antimicrobial properties of the blanket 10. Use of hydrogen peroxide as a disinfecting agent (e.g., rather the bleach) reduces discoloration of colored blankets during repeated industrial laundering cycles. Industrial laundries of the type discussed are also moving away from use of chlorine as a disinfectant (for example, for environmental reasons) and moving to peroxide as an alternative.

Other types of disinfectant chemicals include, e.g., peracetic acid, ozone, etc., which can recharge the metal salt or metal oxide to generate the complex containing metal peroxide as an antimicrobial agent.

The antimicrobial agents discussed above have broad “killing” capacity, targeting no specific moiety in the cell metabolism, and, as a result, will not generate bacteria resistance to antibiotic agents (so-called “super bug”). Transmission of drug resistant bacteria (like MRSA) can occur by contact transmission (direct or indirect), as well as by airborne transmission.

Silver Based Antimicrobial Agents

Silver-based antimicrobial agents can also be used in blankets 10 of the disclosure. The silver can be in the form of, e.g. silver ions, silver ions embedded in Zeolite, and/or silver deposited on the surface of polyester or other suitable polymeric fibers by reduction-oxidation process.

Any of these silver treatments can be combined with a polymer, e.g. polyester, nylon, and/or acrylic, during fiber manufacture. The silver-loaded fibers can then be blended with untreated synthetic yarn in simple form to make blended spun yarn, or can be blended in filament form to be commingled with untreated synthetic filament yarn. The silver-loaded fibers can also be added to the knit construction with untreated synthetic filaments.

The silver ions loaded into the fibers leach out of the fiber material over time, migrating towards bacteria to react with its cell DNA and/or during repeated industrial laundering cycles. Binders may be added to the silver ion during application in order to control, i.e. reduce, the level of leaching during laundering. Selection of a binder is crucial to improvement of the durability and longevity of the blanket 10 through repeated cycles of industrial laundering. The binder, mixed with the antimicrobial agent, can be applied by pad as is, or with an added cross-linking agent. After application, the treated fabric is dried and cured at 375° F. for 60 seconds. The binder must be stable under the conditions of industrial laundering, e.g. temperatures of 160° F., alkaline PH 10±1, and bleaching chemicals (peroxide, Clorox, ozone). A preferred binder is based on acrylate, but other binders based on polyurethane, silicon, etc. will be effective as well.

Quaternary Ammonium Silane-Based Antimicrobial Agents

The family of quaternary ammonium silane (QAS) chemicals can also be used as antimicrobial agents in blankets 10 of the disclosure. One suitable antimicrobial agent of this family is 3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyldimethyl octadecyl ammonium chloride. Trimethoxy silyl reacts with another trimethoxy silyl, or with the hydroxyl, carboxylic, amine, or amide on the fiber surfaces, and the octadecyl with the quaternary ammonium will puncture and rupture the outer wall of a bacteria cell. This antimicrobial agent type does not leach out of the fibers in order to penetrate the bacteria, so the effective useful life of the blanket 10 is extended, and thus enhanced. Further enhancement of the durability of the blanket through repeated industrial laundering cycles (e.g. at 160° F. with high PH and exposure to disinfecting agents, such as peroxide or bleach) may be obtained by addition of a chemical binder, with or without a cross-linking agent.

Polyhexamethylene Bigunide (PHMB) Antimicrobial Agents

Polyhexamethylene bigunide (PHMB) can also be used as an antimicrobial agent in blankets 10 of the disclosure. This agent may be applied to polyester or other suitable polymeric fabric by patting with addition of binder, and with or without cross linking agent.

Other types of disinfectant chemicals include, e.g., peracetic acid, ozone, etc., which can recharge the metal salt or metal oxide to generate the complex containing metal peroxide as an antimicrobial agent.

The antimicrobial agents discussed above have broad “killing” capacity, targeting no specific moiety in the cell metabolism, and, as a result, will not generate bacteria resistance to antibiotic agents (so-called “super bug”). Transmission of drug resistant bacteria (like MRSA) can occur by contact transmission (direct or indirect), as well as by airborne transmission.

Antimicrobial Performance Testing

Several standard testing methods are available for evaluation of the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatment of the blankets as described herein. For example, ISO 2073 is a standard quantitative test method for determining antimicrobial activity of immobilized antimicrobial agents. Other or additional testing methods may also be utilized. For example, ATCC 147 is a form of qualitative testing, and ASTM E 2149-01 (“Shake Flask” test) tests antimicrobial activity of immobilized antimicrobial agents under dynamic contact conditions.

A sample of the blanket 10 of this disclosure (Material Sample Reference No. 082411B) was treated with the zinc-based peroxide antimicrobial agent system discussed above. Testing of antimicrobial properties was conducted on an unlaundered sample, and on a sample that had undergone 100 industrial laundering cycles of 160° F. for 10 minutes each cycle. The samples were tested according to ISO 20743, AATCC 100, and JIS L 1902, with two different bacteria in different inoculum concentrations (shown in Table 1).

TABLE 1
Organism, ATCC#:	Assay Ref.:	Inoculum Concentration:
*Staphylococcus aureus, 6538	2669	1.90 × 105 cfu/ml
**Klebsiella pneumonia, 4352	2675	1.73 × 105 cfu/ml
*Staphylococcus aureus, 6538	2721	1.38 × 105 cfu/ml
**Klebsiella pneumonia, 4352	2720	2.01 × 105 cfu/ml
*GRAM-positive
**GRAM-negative

Both the treated unlaundered and the treated laundered test samples were found to have good antimicrobial properties. Test results for the samples are provided below in Table 2.

TABLE 2
			Log/Percent
Sample:	Assay Ref:	Organism, ATCC#:	Reduction:
082411B,	2669	Staphylococcus aureus, 6538	5.28** logs
Unlaundered			99.99948%
	2675	Klebsiella pneumonia, 4352	5.24** logs
			99.99924%
082411B,	2721	Staphylococcus aureus, 6538	4.07 logs
Laundered			99.9915%
	2720	Klebsiella pneumonia, 4352	4.97 logs
			99.9989%
**denotes full kill

As shown in these test results, the treated laundered sample maintained good antimicrobial properties and performed nearly as well as the treated unlaundered sample, even after undergoing 100 industrial laundering cycles.

A number of embodiments of the disclosure have been described. Nevertheless, it will be understood that various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. For example, the zinc oxide or low solubility zinc salt of the rechargeable sequestering agent can be substituted by, e.g., magnesium oxide, zirconium oxide, or low solubility salt of magnesium or zirconium.

Also, in other implementations, the yarn or fibers of the textile fabric may be chemically treated, e.g. with 4% Lurotex A-25 (available from BASF Aktiengesellschaft, of Ludwigshafen, Germany), a nonionic polyamide derivative that improves moisture transport in textiles composed of synthetic fibers, to increase the moisture content on the face of the fabric, to impart antistatic and soil release properties, as well as absorbing moisture from the air, e.g., to release hydrogen peroxide from sequestration on the surface of the fabric.

Use of the antimicrobial fabrics of the disclosure in other environments, e.g., in nursing homes, correctional facilities, hospitality environments (e.g., hotels, motels, cruise ships, etc.), dormitories, military facilities, schools, daycare facilities and kindergartens, private homes, and the like, is also contemplated. Referring again to FIG. 1, other uses of antimicrobial fabrics of the disclosure are also contemplated. For example, in other implementations, use of the antimicrobial fabric material described herein for particular use in the blankets is expanded, e.g., to include top and fitted bed sheets 22, which are generally formed woven fabric of cotton and/or blends of polyester (or other suitable polymer) and cotton, which, in fabrics of the present disclosure, could include relatively higher polyester (or other polymer) content in the polyester/cotton blends. Use of antimicrobial fabrics of the disclosure is also contemplated, e.g., for other products in the home consumer textile market, such as pillow cases 24, window coverings 26, floor coverings 28, etc., all for use in medical healthcare environments (as shown) as well as other environments, and also for use in other types of products and/or markets.

Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A fabric comprising: polymer fibers, andan antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent and a binding agent binding the sequestering agent on surfaces of at least some of the polymer fibers, at least some of the sequestering agent remaining on the surface of the at least some of the polymer fibers after 50 cycles of laundering.

2. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the polymer fibers comprise micro-denier fibers and comprise a polymer selected from among polyester, polypropylene, polyamide, nylon, and combinations thereof.

3. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the fabric has at least one raised surface.

4. The fabric of claim 3, wherein the raised surface comprises a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern.

5. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the binding agent comprises an acrylate or polyurethane.

6. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the antimicrobial system comprises an antimicrobial agent having oxidizing property.

7. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the fabric comprises 100% polymer fibers.

8. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the polymer fibers constitute 50 wt % or more of the fabric.

9. The fabric of claim 8, comprising cotton and wherein the polymer and fiber weight ratio is 50:50.

10. A fabric comprising: polymer fibers comprising a polymer, andan antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent dispersed within the polymer of at least some of the polymer fibers.

11. The fabric of claim 10, wherein the sequestering agent is dispersed randomly throughout a cross-section of the at least some of the polymer fibers.

12. The fabric of claim 10, wherein the polymer fibers comprise extrusion of the polymer and the sequestering agent dispersed throughout an entire cross section of the fibers.

13. The fabric of claim 10, wherein the polymer fibers comprise a polymer core and a sheath over the core, the sequestering agent being substantially in the sheath.

14. A fabric comprising: yarns comprising a polymer; andan antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent dispersed within the polymer of at least some of the yarns.

15. The fabric of claim 14, wherein the sequestering agent is dispersed randomly throughout a cross-section of the at least some of the yarns.

16. The fabric of claim 14, wherein the yarns are co-spun and comprise the polymer and the sequestering agent.

17. The fabric of claim 14, wherein the yarns comprise a core comprising the polymer and a sheath over the core, the sequestering agent being substantially in the sheath.

18. A curtain comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14.

19. A blanket comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14.

20. The blanket of claim 19, wherein the fabric comprises a knit with terry sinker loop and at least one raised surface in velour finish.

21. The blanket of claim 20, wherein the raised surface comprises a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern.

22. A bedding sheet comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14, wherein the fabric is woven or knitted.

23. A mattress cover comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14.

24. A pillow case comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14.

25. A set of fabric articles of bedding comprising a blanket, a pillow case, and a mattress cover, at least one of which comprises the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14.

26. The set of fabric articles of bedding of claim 25 comprising a bedding sheet.

27. The set of fabric articles of being of claim 26 comprising a privacy curtain.

28. A method comprising: applying an antimicrobial system to a fabric comprising polymer fibers, the antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent and a binding agent.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the antimicrobial system is applied in the form of a slurry.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein the binding agent comprises an acrylate or polyurethane.

31. The method of claim 28, wherein the fabric comprises 100% polymer fibers.

32. The method of claim 28, wherein the fabric comprises 50 wt % or more polymer fibers.

33. The method of claim 28, wherein the fabric comprises cotton and the polymer fibers and cotton have a weight ratio of 50:50.

34. The method of claim 28, comprising forming at least one raised surface of the fabric before or after the antimicrobial system is applied.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the at least one raised surface comprises a grid or reverse grid pattern or a jacquard pattern.

36. The method of claim 28, wherein the antimicrobial system comprises an antimicrobial agent applied after the sequestering agent and the binder.

37. The method of claim 28, wherein the antimicrobial agent is applied during a laundering cycle.

38. A method comprising: coextruding a polymer material and an antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent to form coextruded fibers; andforming a fabric comprising the coextruded fibers.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein coextruding comprises forming the coextruded fibers with a core-sheath construction, the sequestering agent being substantially within the sheath.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein coextruding comprises forming the coextruded fibers with the sequestering agent dispersed throughout a cross-section of the coextruded fibers.

41. A method comprising: co-spinning a polymer material and an antimicrobial system comprising a sequestering agent to form co-spun yarns; andforming a fabric comprising the co-spun yarns.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein co-spinning comprises forming the co-spun yarns with a core-sheath construction, the sequestering agent being substantially within the sheath.

43. The method of claim 41, wherein co-spinning comprises forming the co-spun yarns with the sequestering agent dispersed throughout a cross-section of the co-spun yarns.

44. A method comprising: 1) providing a fabric article comprising the fabric of claim 1, 10, or 14 having a predetermined enhanced level of antimicrobial protection,2) subjecting the fabric article to frequent industrial laundering cycles including contact with an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide, thereby to recharge antimicrobial protection provided by the fabric article to at least a predetermined minimum acceptable level, and3) repeating step 2) for at least 50 industrial laundering cycles.

45. The method of claim 44, wherein the multiple industrial laundering cycles comprises at least 100 industrial laundering cycles.