Researchers at the Australian University, RMIT, have have developed a new antibacterial fabric that can kill a range of infectious bacteria, such as E coli, within 10 minutes. The discovery could significantly reduce the risk of deadly hospital-acquired infections and revolutionize the way the medical industry deals with infection control, the college says.

Associate Professor Vipul Bansal from RMIT University’s School of Applied Sciences, who leads the NanoBiotechnology Research Laboratory team, said fabrics with the built-in ability to fight bacteria could relegate hospital-acquired infections to the sidelines. Antibacterial fabrics do not allow disease-causing bacteria to stick to and grow on their surface — creating an infection-free environment.

"There is potential for special bedding, linens and surgical aprons on which bugs and bacteria do not grow, so we can maintain an infection-free environment in our healthcare settings," he said. "We may also have dressings and Band-Aids that can kill bacteria in the wound, resulting in faster healing. These will all have a major impact on the cost of the [Australian] healthcare system."

Secondary infections are a serious and potentially deadly complication for hospital patients. Bansal says the new antibacterial fabric will have important environmental and clinical applications.

Bansal believes next generation of smart textiles will be free from bacteria and odour and have a range of potential applications from clothing — putting an end to smelly socks — to sporting gear and uniforms.

The results were recently published in the journal Advanced Functional Materials and featured on the journal’s cover