The activities carried out in the laboratory concern the study of new antibacterial textile treatments and the production of innovative antimicrobial materials. The antibacterial activity is tested according to international standards and using Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

The laboratory is also equipped for the production and characterisation of protein materials used in various research sectors: biomedical, filtration, food packaging.

These activities are carried out as part of European, national and regional research projects, as well as in the framework of research contracts financed by companies, banking groups or consortia, and for third parties.

The laboratory is in direct contact with certifying bodies (UNI, ISO, CEN) for the drafting of new standards and for participation in national and international Round Trials.

Equipment

  • category II biosafety cabinet
  • autoclave
  • incubator
  • UPLC ESI-MS Waters
  • Cryomill cryogenic grinder
  • SDS-PAGE electrophoresis
  • RULLA 2 Wet Penetration Test
  • microbial colony reader
  • ultrasonic bath

peristaltic pump for filtration

Activities

  • antibacterial tests performed according to international standards (ASTM E 2149-2013; AATCC 100-2012; EN ISO 20645). Bacteria used: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Klebsiella pneumoniae
  • study and development of new antibacterial materials and treatments
  • extraction, purification and re-use of keratin from animal fibres
  • protein characterisation: SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, protein assay using the Bradford method, proteomic analysis using UPLC ESI-MS
  • use of UPLC ESI-MS for the identification and quantification of valuable animal fibres according to UNI EN ISO 20418-1 and for the detection of formaldehyde in textile products
  • study of dyeing processes using natural dyes to impart innovative and eco-sustainable properties to fabrics
  • functionalisation of polypyrrole-based textile materials (electrical conductivity, antistatic and antibacterial properties)
  • production of antibacterial polypyrrole nanoparticle inks
  • development of new cellulosic fibres from alternative sources
  • production of keratin-based films for food packaging