Issa M. El-Nahhal*, Jamil Salem, Fawzi S. Kodeh, Rawan Anbar, Abdelraouf Elmanama
Copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs) coated cotton, starched cotton and their functionalized CuO-Ag nanocomposites and Cu(II) curcumin complex coated cotton have been prepared. The use of starched cotton materials instead of pristine cotton is to minimize the leaching of CuO-NPs. The use of none-toxic biocompatible starch has improved the adhesion properties of the cotton fibers and enhanced its durability towards CuO-NPs. The antimicrobial activities of these coated cotton materials have been examined. The results have showed excellent antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus for all coated materials. Since that these materials have strong antimicrobial activity therefore, they could also have excellent antiviral activity and can be used to combat the spread of COVID-19 Corona Virus and attempts for minimizing corona virus outbreak. The use of textile fabrics in health facilities such as medical cloths for doctors, nurses, cleaning personnel and patients, could contribute to combat the spread of COVID-19 Corona Virus.