Antimicrobial N-halamine coatings synthesized via vapor-phase assisted polymerization

An N-halamine monomer, 3-allyl-5,5-dimethylhydantoin (ADMH), was synthesized by a Gabriel reaction of 5,5-dimethylhydantoin and 3-bromopropene. Antimicrobial coatings of poly[1-(4,4-dimethyl-2,5-dioxoimidazolidin-1-methyl)ethylene] were prepared on plasma-treated PET fabrics via a vapor-phase assisted polymerization (VAP) process using gasified ADMH as monomer. The coatings endow the PET fabrics with an antimicrobial efficiency greater than 80% for both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus after chlorination of the N-halamine polymer with dilute bleach solution. The obtained antimicrobial effect has remarkable durability that can bear over 30 times of stringent laundering tests. Compared with other antimicrobial finishing methods, the VAP methodology offers great advantages in needless of organic solvents and small consumption of monomer. It has potential applications in a wide variety of fields such as hygienic clothing, underwear, socks, and medical textiles. (C) 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.