In Situ Green Production of Silver Nanoparticles Utilizing Purple Corn Silk Extract for Multifunctional Healthcare Hemp Textiles

Abstract

This study aimed to create multifunctional healthcare hemp fabrics employing a facile and cost-effective method. Multifunctional hemp was manufactured through in situ green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) employing an anthocyanin extract as both a reducing agent and functional colorant, due to the numerous health benefits linked to anthocyanins derived from purple corn silk (PCS), an agricultural byproduct. XRD and SEM-EDS analyses confirmed AgNP formation and uniform distribution on hemp fibers. The results demonstrated that dyebath pH significantly affected the perceived color, color strength (K/S), UV protection, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities. In an alkaline dyebath, more AgNPs were produced, improving K/S values, UV protection (UPF rating of 50+), and antibacterial efficiency against S. aureus and E. coli, with E. coli exhibiting better efficacy. However, an increase in AgNPs reduced the antioxidant capabilities of the treated fabrics. Overall, this study successfully demonstrated an economical and straightforward method for finishing hemp fabrics for multifunction healthcare textiles. PCS also contains a higher concentration of anthocyanins compared to other natural sources, rendering it an economical anthocyanin resource for textile businesses.