Annual/Termination Reports:

[01/02/2007] [07/02/2010] [11/29/2010] [07/12/2011]

Report Information

Participants

Dr. Robert Shulstad, Administrative Advisor; Drs. Yan "Jonathan" Chen (Louisiana State University); Karen Leonas (University of Georgia); Seshadri Ramkumar "Ram" (Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX); Ajoy Sarkar, (Colorado State University); Majid Sarmardi (University of Wisconsin-Madison); Larry Wadsworth (University of Tennessee); Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville); and Yiqi Yang (University of Nebraska-Lincoln)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Call to order and introduction by Dr. Yiqi Yang (2006 Chair of S1026 Committee) at 1:00 pm on October 30, 2006.

Comments from Dr. Robert Shulstad, Administrative Advisor:

Formula funding from the USDA for projects is becoming more difficult and the new funding will be in the form of competitive grants. There is some support in Congress to build the National Research Initiative Competitive Grants Program NRICGP pool up to $1 billion.

Dr. Shulstad recommends that faculty agree to become reviewers of the NRICGP proposals for at least one year to make them more knowledgeable of the requirements and processes for successful proposals, even though they would not be eligible to submit proposals while serving as a reviewer.

Dr. Ramkumar noted that in his opinion Biofuels should be split from the Biobased Materials and Biofuels 71.2 NRICGP so that researchers proposing fiber research would have more opportunity for funding, even if a smaller percentage was allocated to Biomaterials. That sentiment was widely shared among the committee but it was agreed that the case for this would have to be made as appropriate by individuals rather than as a group.

Station Reports from Technical Committee Members: Colorado State University, University of Georgia, Louisiana State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, University of Tennessee, University of Wisconsin, Texas Tech University, and University of Arkansas.

Minutes from the previous meeting

Approval of minutes of November 19, 2005. Motion to approve by Dr. Sarmadi and seconded by Dr. Leonas, motion approved unanimously.

Discussion of new project

Small groups met and planned collaboration in terms of sharing samples, performing analyses unique to their laboratory and developing cooperative projects.

Recognition/Acknowledgement

Dr. Ramaswamy has moved from Kansas State University to become the Associate Dean of the Graduate School at Perdue University and may not have as much involvement in her research in the near future.

Dr. Bllie Collier has moved from The University of Tennessee to become the Dean of the College of Human Sciences at Florida State University.

Dr. Leonas was congratulated for being nominated for the Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professorship at The University of Georgia.

Dr. Ramkumar was congratulated for being recognized by the Texas Tech Board of Regents for his development of the Nonwoven Decontamination Wipe by the U.S. Army.

Dr. Yang was congratulated for his innovative research featured on the internet for producing nonwovens from chicken feathers and from rice straw.

Dr. Ramkumar reported on the most successful conference he organized through Texas Tech University in Coimbatore, India on Advances in Fibrous Materials, Nonwoven and Technical Textiles, during August 7-9, 2006 with honorary sponsorships from INDA and AATCC. Mr. Kanti Jasani represented AATCC in India and wrote about the conference in the October 2006 issue of AATCC Review. Dr. Kumar also noted that in the Second International Conference in Coimbatore in July 2005 Dr. Wadsworth was the Plenary Speaker.

Dr. Ramkumar also noted that he is the co-organizer of the first INDA Nonwovens Conference in Mumbai, India in October 2007.

Dr. Yang congratulated the excellent work and science of the research presented at the meeting.

Dr. Leonas was recognized for the local arrangements and for her excellent work in cooperation with Dr. Ramaswamy in the final editing of the new proposal.

Election of 2007 Officers

The Nomination Committee proposed the following officers:

Chair  Dr. Larry Wadsworth
Secretary  Dr. Seshadri Ramkumar
Both proposed officers were unanimously accepted.

Annual Report and Final Project Report for S-1002
The annual report for S-1002 is due within 10 days of the technical committee meeting and each participant was requested to send an electronic copy as soon as possible to Dr. Wadsworth to enable him to compile the report.

The final project report for S-1002 is due within 30 days of the committee meeting and each participant was requested to send an electronic copy of the final 5-year report submitted to their university. Drs. Sarmadi and Warnock agreed to help Dr. Wadsworth in compiling the report and Dr. Leonas agreed to review the report before submission.

Concluding remarks by Dr. Schulstad

Dr. Schulstad noted that the meeting had been highly productive and reiterated that federal funding will become more competitive. He again stressed the benefits of serving as a reviewer for proposals and noted that collaboration in research, especially cross-discipline cooperation was especially important.

Next Annual Meeting: October 1, 2007 in Charleston, SC. This will be in conjunction with the 2007 AATCC IE&C at the Frances Marion Hotel (October 2-4, 2007).

Meeting adjourned at 12:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Larry Wadsworth
2006 Secretary

Accomplishments

Objective 1: To develop value-added products from renewable and recyclable resources. <br /> <br /> Development of kenaf value-added products for textiles and crafts. University of Arkansas, Fayetteville reported on two projects using cotton/kenaf blended yarns produced by Mississippi State. The colorfastness of reactive and direct dyes on kenaf and cotton fibers and 50/50 cotton/kenaf yarns before and after laundering was studied. Lignin removal and carding were necessary for the kenaf fibers while no preparation was needed for the blended yarns. The fibers and yarns were dyed with Procion Red MX 305 (reactive dye) and Diazol C 380 Basic Red (direct dye) following manufacturers guidelines. Dyeing was performed in an Ahiba Texomat dye machine that provided a circulating bath at a constant specified temperature. Data analyses utilized ANOVA and Fisher's LSD to determine differences between the L, a, b values before and after 1, 2 and 3 launderings in an Atlas Launder-o-meter. Results showed that the kenaf fibers were consistently the most colorfast followed by the cotton fibers and the cotton/kenaf blended yarns, respectively. Overall, the reactive dye produced the best colorfastness results.<br /> <br /> In association with Margaret Roach Wheeler, an international American Indian fashion designer, the 50/50 cotton/kenaf yarns were used to create a Mandan Sacred Pole exhibited in a London fashion gallery. Historically, this pole stood in front of the Mandan lodges to ward off evil. The bark was stripped from the pole and hung with either personal clothing or animal skins and skulls. A six-harness loom was used to weave the fabric designed by Wheeler. Ground lichens with an alum/ferrous sulfate mordant was used to dye some of the yarns to create the border and design interest. Fabric was raveled to produce long hanging fringe on each end of the fabric. A basting stitch holds the hood in place, but can be removed so that the fabric can be used as a table runner.<br /> <br /> Biobased composites for auto interior application. This study was conducted by Louisiana State University (LSU) in cooperation with the USDA Southern Regional Research Center on the biobased nonwoven composites made from cotton, kenaf, and hemp fibers for acoustical insulation in automotives. The uniform web structure of the nonwovens was formed using carding and needle-punching techniques. To enhance the flame retardant performance of the composites, a nondurable flame retardant solution was applied to treat these experimental nonwovens and the oxygen index method ASTM D 2863-00 was used for the evaluation of the composite flame retardancy. The nonwoven acoustical properties in terms of sound absorption and sound transmission loss were measured using the B&K instruments. The research results indicated that the Cotton/PP nonwoven composite had superior performance in sound absorption and sound insulation compared to the commercial foam padding products selected in this study. For the flame retardant performance, there was no difference between the experimental nonwovens and commercial foams. The nondurable flame retardant treatment helped enhance the flame retardancy of the kenaf/PP and hemp/PP nonwovens most significantly.<br /> <br /> Regenerated bagasse cellulose fiber. An initial experiment in the conversion of raw bagasse into regenerated cellulose fiber was completed at LSU. A monofilament bagasse fiber was produced. The processing steps for this conversion included bagasse cleaning, delignification and pulp-making, cellulose solution preparation, and fiber spinning. The processing techniques used in this research had two major advantages. First, the method for making the bagasse cellulose solution was environmentally friendly. The cellulose solvent could be recycled for reuse all the time. There were no hazardous chemical disposals. Second, the procedure of dissolving the bagasse pulp enabled additions of different nanoparticles to tune properties of the derived cellulose polymer. This provided an engineering approach for enhancing the ultimate properties of the regenerated bagasse cellulose fiber. The regenerated bagasse cellulose fiber was compared with regenerated wood cellulose fiber and nanoparticle/cellulose fibers in terms of mechanical strength and elongation. The research results indicated that the tensile strength of the regenerated bagasse cellulose fiber was considerably lower than that of the regenerated wood cellulose fiber but the elongation seemed consistent between these two fibers. It was also shown that adding a small amount of the nano materials to compound with the celluloses helped to increase the cellulose tensile strength but reduce the extensibility.<br /> <br /> Molecular modeling to explain how the blending of L and D isomers affects hydrolysis resistance of poly(lactide). The University of Nebraska-Lincoln used molecular modeling to explain how the blending of poly(L-lactide) (PLLA) and poly(D-lactide) (PDLA) affects the resistance of poly(lactide) (PLA) to hydrolysis. Amorphous PLLA/PDLA blends were created using molecular modeling, and the minimum potential energy of the blends before and after hydrolysis were obtained. The 50/50 blend has the greatest resistance to hydrolysis, which agrees with past experiments and is due to its having stronger hydrogen-bonding and dipole-dipole interactions than pure PLLA or PDLA. This is based on the 50/50 blend having more of these interactions and shorter average lengths for the hydrogen-bonds and dipole-dipole interactions compared to pure PLLA and PDLA. Hydrogen-bonding possibly has a greater effect than the dipole-dipole interactions on the resistance to hydrolysis. The change in potential energy for hydrolysis decreases linearly with increasing % PLLA or % PDLA from 0 to 50%<br /> <br /> Preparation and characterization of nonwoven materials based on biobased materials. This cooperation between LSU and the USDA Southern Regional Research Center from New Orleans, LA (Dr. Dharnid V. Parikh) allowed the preparation of biodegradable nonwoven composites made of bagasse and cotton fibers and bio-derived polyesters (polyhydroxyalkanoates, PHA). Durable fire retardant formula (containing phosphorus for fire retarding and melamine formaldehyde for crosslinking of cellulose) and non-durable, washable (phosphorus or boron containing, without crosslinker) fire retardant formulations have been applied. Biobased plasticizers (esters of citric and aconitic acids) have been used for lowering the crystallinity of biobased polyesters. The foreseen applications are mainly in buildings and auto industries. Fire retarding efficiency has been assessed by determining the oxygen index according to current standard methods. Mechanical and thermal properties have been investigated and reported.<br /> <br /> Use of wood fibers and polymers for preparation of stable sandwich-type materials. This project has been developed through the cooperation between the LSU School of Human Ecology and the LSU Department of Renewable Resources (Dr. Qinglin Wu and Dr. John Z. Lu). Short wood fibers have been blended with synthetic polymers (PVC, polyolefins) and the composition was pressed to obtain laminate products of variable thickness. Thermal transitions, wettability and mechanical properties were investigated. <br /> <br /> Preparation of biobased plasticizers for fibers and polymer industry. The growing concerns about phthalates toxicity in consumer products made of PVC have led to a search at LSU for alternatives that would not elicit the same public health concerns. Investigations continued from 2005 to use esters of bio-derived citric and aconitic acid as alternatives to phthalate esters. Polyhydroxyalkanoates have been added to PVC as potential fiber-forming polymeric materials to be plasticized by these bioderived alternatives. <br /> <br /> Objective 2. To develop bioprocessing and related new technologies for textile applications.<br /> <br /> New technologies for digital textile printing. The University of Nebraska-Lincoln studied the possibilities of using UV absorbers to improve lightfastness of inkjet prints. Up to 1-class increase of AATCC lightfastness was obtained by adding a UV absorber onto a printed fabric. This means that a designer, an artist or a textile/apparel producer can double the fading resistance of inkjet printed textiles to light by a simple treatment. Both water soluble and insoluble UV absorbers with benzophenone structures were examined. The effects of UV absorbers, their concentrations and application conditions on lightfastness improvement of reactive inkjet prints were reported.<br /> <br /> Digital textile printing. Researchers at Southern University, Baton Rouge conducted studies to determine optimum conditions for pre-treatment that will lead to the best color depth of digitally printed cotton fabrics. The study determined the effect of padder roller speed and roller pressure on the color of digitally printed cotton fabrics. Single layers of double-knit 100% cotton fabric were padded at speeds of 20, 40, and 60 rpm and pressure levels of 5, 15, 40, 60, and 70 psi using a 36 wide padder. The fabrics were printed using reactive dyes. A rainbow print containing individual one inch stripes of cyan, yellow, magenta and black (CYMK) was used. The print also contained measurable areas of red, pink, violet and green. Results indicated that the optimum conditions for padding were a roller pressure of 20 psi and roller speed of 40rpm.<br /> <br /> Enzymatic treatment of wool and specialty hair fibers. This study was conducted at Kansas State University. This study evaluated the efficiency of enzymes (xylanase, pectinase, savinase, and resinase) in scouring wool, (merino and rambouillet) and specialty hair fibers (llama, alpaca, mohair and camel), in comparison with control treatments with hot water, and conventional soap. Various physical, chemical, and structural properties of the treated and untreated fibers were evaluated. Xylanase, and pectinase were found to clean the fibers as efficiently as soap, but without causing any physical damage to the fibers. Resinase was however, not an efficient scouring agent.<br /> <br /> Enzymatic treatment of loomstate flax to improve wicking and dyeing performance. This study was conducted at Colorado State University in which a loomstate flax fabric was treated with the enzymes cellulase and pectinase at recommended conditions of pH and temperature. Reaction conditions were further optimized by varying the enzyme concentration, agitation speeds and duration of treatment. Following enzymatic treatment the comfort property of the fabric was measured via the rate of water evaporation. Subsequently, the fabric was dyed and dyeing properties such as rate of wicking and color yield were evaluated. The comfort and dyeing properties were simultaneously compared with a sodium hydroxide treated fabric. Results showed that enzymatically treated samples possessed excellent water evaporation behavior suggesting effective removal of hydrophobic impurities and probable occurrence of cracks and interfibrillar splitting of fibers. Furthermore, it was shown that cellulose hydrolysis probably creates additional hydroxyl groups that are then available for hydrogen bond formation with a direct dye thereby resulting in either comparable or higher K/S values for enzyme treated fabrics. Optimal conditions for enzymatic treatment were shown to be 9 ml/L enzyme concentration for 2 hours at an agitation rate of 50 rpm.<br /> <br /> Objective 3 - To develop and evaluate textile systems for protective and medical applications. <br /> <br /> Effect of pre-wetting facemasks on filtration efficiency. The potential for occupational exposure to blood-borne pathogens, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis B, has received much attention in recent years. Healthcare organizations on a national and international level have developed guidelines and standards for health care workers to minimize risks of exposure. Use of protective apparel is a key factor in these recommendations. At the University of Georgia, the impact of pre-wetting the face masks on the outside or the inside to simulate conditions that might occur during the normal use of the mask was studied. The variables included facemasks, side exposed, liquids, time delay between liquid application and testing, and amount of liquid. Three facemasks were selected for evaluation. The first was a molded rayon and polypropylene blend with acrylic resin binder; the second was a 3 -ply, pleated blended cellulose fiber with polyester and polypropylene; and the third was a 4-ply, pleated polypropylene, polyester, cellulose, polyethylene with acrylic adhesive. These facemasks had previously been evaluated and the properties of weight, thickness, pore size, repellency, resistance to liquids and bacterial filtration efficiency were determined. The liquid applied to the inside was physiological saline, and on the outside physiological saline and synthetic blood were used. For each facemask, three amounts of liquid were applied to the face or interior part of the mask in an aerosol form. The quantities applied were 0.22ml, 0.66ml, and 1.24ml (+/- .04 ml). Bacterial Filtration Efficiency (BFE) was measured at four time intervals after the application of the liquids and compared to a control facemask (one that had not been pre-wet). Time between application and evaluation were 0, 10, 30 and 60 minutes. Results showed that the pre-wetting did influence the BFE of the face masks. There appeared to be differences due to the face masks, the liquid, the time delay and the amount of liquid applied. The data are currently being analyzed.<br /> <br /> Improvement of filtration efficiency and protection of facemasks. Further work has been done on cotton-comfortable multi-ply face mask (FM) fabrics which were developed at The University of Tennessees Textiles and Nonwovens Development Center (TANDEC). These FM fabrics have a repellent finished outer spunbond (SB) polypropylene (PP) layer, a middle layer of electrostatically charged (EC) melt blown (MB) PP, and a face side of a cotton-rich nonwoven. The EC MB PP layer effectively filters out aerosols and particulate containing bacteria and viruses, thereby protecting both the wearer and other personnel in the environment. In addition, a cotton-rich nonwoven layer on the body side provides the aesthetics and comfort of cotton, and also better retains antibacterial finish for neutralizing any microbes that penetrate the EC filter media. Electrostatic charging developed by Tsai and Wadsworth (U.S. Patents 5,441,550 and 5,686,050) of MB PP filter media resulted in filtration efficiency (FE) to 0.1 ¼m NaCl of 80-86% and in bacterial filtration efficiency to Staphyloccus aureus bacteria (BFE) values of 98.1-99.6% compared to non-charged FM, which had only 38% FE to 0.1 ¼m NaCl and an unsatisfactory BFE of 94.3%. Likewise, viral filtration efficiency (VFE) values of the charged FM were 99% or greater. <br /> <br /> FMs which were given antimicrobial (AM) treatments on the cotton side and either fluorochemical (FC) only or FC plus AM on the outer SB side showed 99.99+% kill rate of bacteria after exposure during the BFE test compared to 63% reduction when no protective finishes were applied to FM with a 30 g/m2 100% cotton hydroentangled inner layer. However another control sample with EC MB filter media and with no finish and an inner layer of cotton-surfaced nonwoven (CSN) with 13 g/m2 of 60% cotton/40% PP on 12 g/m2 SB PP had a false positive kill rate of 99.99+% as well, possibly indicating that electret charges may also kill bacteria. The testing of other non-finished FMs with and without charged MB media gave mixed results in regards to charged medias effectiveness in killing bacteria, warranting further study.<br /> <br /> It was also shown that if the outside and inside layers of FM laminate were first given protective finishes and then laminated with non-charged MB PP media, the MB filter media in the laminates was effectively electrostatically charged without the finishes on the outer layers interfering with charging, resulting in average FEs to 0.1¼m NaCl ranging from 95.89%-98.58%. This allows much flexibility concerning processing steps in finishing, laminating and electrostatic charging of the FM laminates.<br /> <br /> Plasma-enhanced synthesis of quaternary ammonium groups for antibacterial surfaces. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin have developed an attractive approach to develop stable and robust antimicrobial surfaces with no residual toxicity by covalently implanting polycation-type structures on organic and inorganic materials. The focus of the work has been to generate surface layers that kill bacteria on contact by using low pressure, non-equilibrium plasma (LP-NEP)-enhanced synthesis. The work has developed a step-by-step grafting of various reactive groups to synthesize quaternary ammonium functionalities by plasma polymerization and subsequent chemical derivatization. <br /> <br /> The plasma thin film deposition on filter paper and stainless steel (SS) substrates was done in a parallel plate, capacitively coupled cylindrical reactor equipped with 40 kHz and 13.56 MHz RF power supply with pulsing capability. The SS substrates were pretreated with O2 and hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) plasmas to form an intermediate layer that stabilizes the top bioactive structure to be deposited. The cellulose substrates were directly used. The high densities of reactive nitrogen containing functionalities are deposited using ethylene diamine (ED), acrylonitrile (AN), and acetonitrile (AcN) plasmas at various conditions (RF power frequency: 40 kHz or 13.56 MHz; continuous-wave or pulsed plasma modes). Ethylene Diamine (ED) plasma was found to deposit films with highest concentrations of reactive nitrogen functionalities (around 35% nitrogen surface concentration), primarily consisting of amine and imine groups. These films are covalently attached and do not delaminate during washing with water or acetone in an ultrasonicator. The quaternization of plasma-deposited surface amines was done by a subsequent ex-situ reaction with hexyl bromide, and further methylated with methyl iodide. X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to determine and confirm the surface chemistry and the nature of functional groups at all steps in the process. The evaluation of antifouling ability of the functionalized surfaces was carried out using standard colony counting procedures on stainless steel at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and on filter paper at the University of Georgia. Compared to unmodified SS, quaternized SS substrates showed a 3 log decrease in Listeria monocytogenes attachment at 24 h contact time. In case of filter paper samples, it was found that the modified paper decreased the growth of Staphylococcus aureus by 99%. <br /> <br /> The effect of molecular architecture of the chemical groups on the surface is being studied by changing the length of alkyl chain used in ex situ reaction. This will yield the mechanisms to develop antimicrobial surfaces with optimal activity. Also, gram negative bacteria, Klebsiella pneumoniae will be used to evaluate the modified surfaces. <br /> <br /> Electrospinning of hyaluronic acid nanowebs and preclinical trials in wound healing. This project was developed through the cooperation of Apparel, Textiles, and Interior Design, Veterinary Medicine and Mechanical Engineering departments at Kansas State University. Hyaluronic acid was successfully electrospun using the appropriate ecofriendly and biocompatible solvent systems to produce nanowebs. These nanowebs were then tried in a pre-clinical study in wound healing experiments in pigs. A spin length of 2.5 cm and an applied voltage of 15 Kv were the best parameters for electrospinning the nanofibers. Although a flow rate of 0.1 ml/hr produced finest nanofibers, but considering that the rate of production was quite slow and could be increased by 5 times and consequently the time to produce the nanofiber wound dressings could be reduced to one fifth, the flow rate of 0.5 ml/hr was considered as the most viable and efficient option to produce nanofiber wound dressings.<br /> <br /> The air permeability of Hyaluronic acid nanofiber dressing was very much higher than that of Vaseline gauze dressing with the same cotton backing cloth. Degree of crystallinity of Hyaluronic acid nanofibers was found to be 21%.<br /> According to the report of a histopathologist, it can be concluded that the HA nanofiber wound dressings were the best type of dressing out of the five types of dressings compared. As per the assessment based on the photographs, it was found that the HA nanofiber wound dressing was better than Band-Aid, solid hyaluronic acid, vaseline gauze dressing, but it was not statistically better than the silver dressing at 95% confidence level. <br /> <br /> Objective 4: To develop and evaluate textiles with enhanced resistance (or susceptibility) to environmental degradation.<br /> <br /> Evaluation of long term performance of a selection of innovative materials marketed to quilters. Accelerated light and heat aging was carried out on the selected products to determine whether or not these commercial products contribute to discoloration or degradation over time. It was shown that fusible battings are the only commercial product acceptable for quilts intended as heirlooms or for museum collections. All adhesive sprays except one were associated with significant yellowing or strength losses following light and heat aging. Marking pens resulted in significant discoloration unless removed by immersion in water at the completion of the quilting project. If so-called eraser pens were used to remove the marking pen marks, the eraser formulation left a residue that led to significant discoloration when quilt prototypes were subjected to accelerated heat or light aging. This suggests that quilters should use marking pens only if they immediately launder or soak in water their newly completed quilts.

Publications

Doyal, Melanie D. and Mary M. Warnock. 2006. Colorfastness properties of reactive and direct dyed cotton and kenaf fibers and cotton/kenaf yarns.http://www.cwu.edu/~fandcs/fcsea/AAFCS%20abstracts.html<br /> <br /> Doyal, Melanie D. and Mary M. Warnock. 2006. Colorfastness properties of reactive and direct dyed cotton fibers. Cotton Report Series. Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. (in press).<br /> <br /> Chen, Y., L. Sun, I. Negulescu, Q. Wu, and G. Henderson. 2005. Comparative Study of Hemp Fiber for Nonwoven Composites. Journal of Industrial Hemp, in press.<br /> <br /> Chen, Y., I. Negulescu, L. Sun, N. Jiang, X. Zhang, and D. V. Parikh. Acoustical and Flame Retardant Performance of Biobased Nonwovens as Auto Interior Materials. Proceedings of Techtextil Symposium North America, March 28-30, 2006, Atlanta, GA.<br /> <br /> Parikh, D.V., Chen, Y., Sachinvala, N.D., and Sun, L. Sound Dampening by Velour Nonwoven Systems in Automobiles. AATCC Review, 2006, 6(8), 40-44.<br /> <br /> D. V. Parikh, N. D. Sachinvala, Y. Chen, L. Sun, G. Bhat, and S. Ramkumar. Acoustic Properties of Environmentally Benign Automotive Natural Fiber Composites. AATCC Review, 2006, 6(1), 43-48<br /> <br /> Yang, Y., and Naarani, V., Improvement of the lightfastness of reactive inkjet printed cotton, Dyes and Pigments In press.<br /> <br /> Karst, D., Yang, Y, and Tanaka, G. An Explanation of Increased Hydrolysis of the <beta>-(1,4)-Glycosidic Linkages of Grafted Cellulose Using Molecular Modeling. Polymer, 47(18), 6464-6471(2006).<br /> <br /> Karst, D., and Yang, Y. Molecular modeling study of the resistance of PLA to hydrolysis based on the blending of PLLA and PDLA, Polymer, 47(13), 4845-4850 (2006).<br /> <br /> Karst, D., and Yang, Y. Potential advantages and risks of nanotechnology for textiles, AATCC Review, 6(3), 44-48(2006).<br /> <br /> Yang, Y., Naarani, V., Thillainayagam, V., and Reddy, N., Effects of printhouse humidity and temperature on quality of ink jet printed cotton, silk and nylon fabrics, Journal of Imaging Science and Technology, 50(2), 181-186(2006).<br /> <br /> Yang, Y., Han, S., Fan, Q., and Ugbolue, S.C., Nanoclay and modified nanoclay as sorbents for anionic, cationic and nonionic dyes, Textile Research Journal, 75(8), 622-627(2005).<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K., & Etters, J.N. (2006). The use of polyacrylamide as an auxiliary in water repellent finishing. Colourage, 53(9), 45-48. <br /> <br /> Shen, Hongqing and Leonas, Karen K, Repellent Finishing and Layering Order Studies of Fluid Resistance of Surgical Face Masks, AATCC Review, Volume 6, No. 9, September 2006, pp 61-64.<br /> <br /> Shen, Hongqing and Leonas, Karen K., Study of Repellent Finish on Filtration Ability of Surgical Face Masks, International Nonwovens Journal, Volume 14, No. 4, 2005, pp 17 - 26.<br /> <br /> Leonas, K.K. & Shen, H. Barrier Properties of Medical Face Masks: The Influence of Repellent Finish and Layering Order on the Filtration Ability and Fluid Resistance of Face Masks, Tandec Conference 2006.<br /> <br /> Sarmadi, M. & Leonas, K.K. Antibacterial Surfaces Using Plasma-Enhanced Coating/Functionalization, Tandec Conference 2006.<br /> <br /> Lee, Y. E. and L. C. Wadsworth, Process Property Studies of Melt Blown Thermoplastic Polyurethane Polymers for Protective Apparel, International Nonwovens Journal, 2-9, Winter 2005.<br /> <br /> Namwamba, G.W. and Dixon, D. L. (2006). The effect of roller speed and fabric layers during padding on shade depth of digitally printed cotton fabrics. Paper presented at the Association of Research Directors 2006 Conference. Atlanta, GA. <br /> <br /> Namwamba, G.W. and Dixon, D. L. (2006). Integrating 3-D Body Scanning, Digital Textile Printing and Other Digital Technologies for Mass Customization. Abstract published in the proceedings of the 2006 Association of Research Directors Conference, Atlanta, GA.<br /> <br /> Ioan I. Negulescu, Yan (Jonathan) Chen, Xiaoqun Zhang, Michael Saska, Liangfeng Sun, Gita Ramaswami and Dharnidhar Parikh, Fire Retarded Biobased Non-Woven Composites, 2006 Beltwide Cotton Conferences Ninth Nonwovens Symposium, San Antonio, TX, Jan 5-6, 2006 (CD-ROM).<br /> <br /> I. Negulescu, J. Chen, X. Zhang, N. Jiang, L. Sun, and D. V. Parikh. Flame Retarded Biobased Nonwoven Composites Prepared Entirely from Annual Plants, 2006 International Nonwoven Technical Conference, September 25-28, Houston, Texas (CD-ROM).<br /> <br /> Nicholas Gil, Ioan Negulescu, and Michael Saska. Evaluation of the Effects of Bio-Based Plasticizers on Thermal and Mechanical Properties of Poly(Vinyl Chloride. Journal of Applied Polymer Science 102 (2), 1366-73 (2006).<br /> <br /> John Z. Lu, Qinglin Wu, Ioan I. Negulescu, and Yan Chen, The Influences of Fiber Feature and Polymer Melt Index on Mechanical Properties of Sugarcane Fiber/Polymer Composites, Journal of Applied Polymer Science, Vol. 102, 5607-5619 (2006)<br /> <br /> Val Yachmenev, Ioan Negulescu and Chen Yan, Thermal Insulation Properties of Cellulosic-Based Nonwoven Composites, Journal of Industrial Textiles, 36:1, 73-86 (2006).<br /> <br /> Das, Trina, and Gita N. Ramaswamy, Enzyme Treatment of Wool and Specialty Hair Fibers, Textile Research Journal, 76:2, 126  133 (2006).<br /> <br /> Wadsworth, L. C. and P. P. Tsai, Enhancement of Face Masks with Electret Filter Media and Protective Finishes for Safety from Biological Threats, AATCC Symposium on Innovations in Medical, Protective, and Technical Textiles, Cary, NC, February 1-2, 2006 (CD ROM).<br /> <br /> Wadsworth, L. C. and Y. E. Lee, Polymer-Laid Thermoplastic Polyurethanes for Protective Apparel, 2006 Beltwide Cotton Conferences, Utilization Nonwovens Conference, San Antonio, TX, January 5-6, 2006 (CD ROM).

Impact Statements

1. Production of new environmental compatible products is critical to the environment. Raw bagasse has been regenerated into cellulose fiber by a reusable solvent with no hazardous chemical disposal and biobased composites have been produced for acoustical insulation in automobiles from cotton, kenaf, and hemp fibers for value added use of agricultural products.
2. The production of value added kenaf products has proven that kenaf can be a viable cash crop; that cottage craft industries can use kenaf for a myriad of products that are able to boost a states economy; and that kenaf is versatile enough, not only in the craft industry, but also in textile and apparel industries.
3. Effective protective apparel is critical to the health and safety of those in work positions related to healthcare and homeland security.
4. Plasma-enhanced synthesis of quaternary ammonium groups for antibacterial surfaces is a non-polluting attractive approach to develop stable and robust antimicrobial surfaces with no residual toxicity.
5. Xylanase and pectinase enzymes were found to clean wool and speciality hair fibers as efficiently as soap, but without causing any physical damage to the fibers.
6. Enzymatic treatment of loomstate flax is an has been shown to be a environmentally friendly way improve wicking and dyeing performance of linen fabrics compared to strongly alkaline treatment.
7. Digital textile printing has the ability to provide on-demand access and reduction in cost in the application of surface designs.
8. Very efficient fire-retarding formulations have been used on the treatment of nonwovens containing bagasse fibers and biobased polymers.
9. Production of sugar cane derived biobased plasticizers coupled with the use of bagasse in technical materials will impact positively the sugar cane industry in this country.
10. Electrospun nanofiber webs of hyaluronic acid were developed and in a preclinical study in wound healing experiments with pigs were found to be the best type of wound dressing compared to Band-Aid, solid hyaluronic acid and Vaseline gauze dressing, but was not better than sliver dressing.
11. A long-term study of innovative products marketed to quilters and textile artists led to the reformulation of at least two of the popular spray adhesives. The results have been widely disseminated in the popular press, on internet discussion groups and have influenced quilters practices and enabled them to make informed choices. Many quilters now avoid the use of spray adhesives and marking pens in quilts intended as heirlooms for family members.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Dr. Robert Shulstad - AA (University of Georgia); Drs. Suraj Sharma (University of Georgia); Ioan Negulescu (Louisiana State University); Karen Leonas (Washington State University); Larry Wadsworth (University of Tennessee-Knoxville); Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville); Majid Sarmadi (University of Wisconsin-Madison); Seshadri Ramkumar (Texas Tech University); Jonathan Chen (University of Texas-Austin); Substitute: Dr. Vamshi Krishna Naarani for Dr. Grace Namwamba (Southern University)

Brief Summary of Minutes

The S-1026 Technical Committee Annual Meeting, held in the Azalea Room at the Days Inn in Atlanta, GA, was called to order by chair person, Dr. Ramkumar, at 2:10 p.m. on Sunday, May 16, 2010. Introductions by the attendees were acknowledged. Dr. Shulstad was commended for his support during the past year.

Amendments were made to the agenda with changes in presentation times for Drs. Leonas and Sarmadi; removal of report by Dr. Cloud, due to her absence; and addition of election of officers for 2010-2011. A motion to accept the printed agenda was made by Dr. Sarmadi and seconded by Dr. Wadsworth. Motion passed.

General discussion involved the following topics:

Focus for new research project

Interdisciplinary work on a new research project to be submitted to a granting agency. Human health is a national topic. Industry participation should be included. Dr. Sarmadi suggested that fibrous materials and polymers be included. Dr. Ramkumar volunteered to spearhead this activity.

Housekeeping chores

Continental breakfast available before 8:00 a.m.

Cost for the Azalea Room and refreshments is $500.00. Cost is to be divided between the attendees.

Several restaurants are within walking distance for lunch and dinner.

S-1026 ends September 30, 2011. Funding for a planning meeting may be available through the respective Agricultural Experiment Stations (AES). A draft of the new project proposal must be prepared with a possible submission date of April 2011 and a start date of October 1, 2011.

Comments by Dr. Shulstad

The process for the review of proposals was presented. The new project proposal will need to include more details with the objectives being clearly identified and very specific in content. Methodology must be specific and clearly linked to the objectives. How the researchers will be working together  sharing of fabrics, laboratories, etc.  must be explained in detail. Previous research efforts and their relationship to the new project must be stated.

Accomplishments that are being built upon and previous collaborations depicting working together as a team should be identified. If previous objectives are to be used, justifications as to why they should be continued on a collaborative basis needs to be stated. The expertise to be brought by the individual committee members to the objectives should be highlighted. Evidence must be shown as to how the research efforts have been and will be together for joint authorship. AES directors want more interdisciplinary work and would like for the regional groups to apply for AFRI grants. Members were encouraged to go to the AFRI website for information concerning funding for future projects; earmarks; USDA initiatives. Human health, national security and bio-fuel energy are hot topics. According to Dr. Sarmadi, a USDA spokesperson said that small projects will not be considered. Budgets for these projects need to be for $1 million or more. Dr. Shulstad agreed with these statements. Competitive grants should be the objective and not just another regional project. The committee should not lock itself into one funding source. Dr. Leonas mentioned applying for a planning grant to support a meeting for the purpose of discussing and preparing the new project/grant.

The following oral reports were shared:

Dr. Larry Wadsworth (University of Tennessee-Knoxville)

The topic was Development of the Next Generation of Renewable Nonwovens for Agricultural and Disposable Hygiene Applications. He has established a partnership with NatureWorks and U.S. Pacific. U.S. Pacific Nonwovens is the exclusive agent for NatureWorks PLA meltspun products. Biax meltblown has been rediscovered as the ideal technology to produce elastomerics. A Biodegradation Test Protocol is being developed in China. Principle investigator with the project titled Biodegradable Mulches for Specialty Crops Produced Under Protective Cover. This project is grant funded. The interdisciplinary team is studying the biodegradable characteristics of already existing plastics. Three different field studies are being conducted simultaneously  University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Washington State University, Texas A & M. Team members will be documenting the effects of biodegradable mulches on soil ecosystems and plant health to aid in ensuring a safe, healthy, sustainable and productive food system. Greenhouse trays were used for fabric/soil burial purposes. Tap water was the wetting agent. Textile tests performed included weight, thickness, breaking load and elongation and tearing strength. Microscopy work showed the fiber breaks.

Dr. Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville)

Collaborations with Dr. Parikh, SRRC-New Orleans, concerning flammability testing of nonwovens having different flame retardant finishes have been completed. Efforts have resulted in a publication for 2010. PBI fabric was obtained so that a full-size prototype of the newly designed firefighter uniform could be constructed. Intent is to compare the current required firefighter uniform with the newly designed one according to the Protocol developed two years ago. The body scanner is to be used in this phase of the study. This part of the study needs to be completed.

Dr. Suraj Sharma (University of Georgia)

The topic was titled Microencapsulation Technology Using Essential Oils to Produce Smart Textile Functionalities that Improve Human Health. The background of House Dust Mites (HDM) and their cause of allergies were discussed in addition to their location in bedding, mattresses and pillows. Thyme and clove oils were used for experimental purposes. Variables considered were the type of oil, ratio of gelatin to oil, stirring speed and surfactant. Morphology also was studied. Clove capsules had 93.88% mortality; Thyme capsules had 83.67% mortality; control had only 2% mortality of HDM. Results of study indicated that microencapsulation technology along with vacuum drying provide an effective process to prevent aggregation of microcapsules; stirring speed and types of oil are critical for size; essential oils are the alternative and effective service for acarcides (anti-HDM).

Dr. Majid Sarmadi (University of Wisconsin-Madison)

Topic was titled Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Enhanced Synthesis of Green Flame Retardant Cellulosic Materials. The overall objective of this work was to generate a durable flame retardant treatment on cellulosic materials. Flame retardant cellulosic materials have been produced using a silicon dioxide (SiO2) network coating. SiO2 network armor was prepared through hydrolysis and condensation of the precursor tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), prior coating the substrates, and was cross-linked on the surface of the substrates using atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) technique. A 45º angle flammability chamber was used for testing purposes. Aging tests were conducted to evaluate the coating resistance during the accelerated laundry technique. Due to protection effects of the SiO2 network armor, the cellulosic based fibers exhibit enhanced thermal stability and improved flame retardancy. Results support the conclusion that silica-based coatings used in conjunction with plasma processes have high potential to obtain green flame retardant cellulosic materials with potential applications in the development of upholstered furniture, clothing and military applications.

Dr. Karen Leonas (Washington State University)

Pictures of the newly renovated Textile Research Laboratory spaces were shared. The four areas of research include (1) General Performance Testing; (2) Biological Safety Lab; (3) Chemical Hoods and Performance Evaluation; (4) Conditioning Laboratory. Washington State University participates under Objectives 1 and 3 of the current S-1026 project. Objective 1 included electrospinning efforts. The apparatus, spinning parameters and fiber production were discussed. Objectives for this project included evaluation of spinning properties and influence on fiber properties; redesigning of spinning equipment for the alignment of spun fibers and development of yarns; incorporation of antimicrobial chemicals into a matrix. Emphasis was placed on successful work using ampicillin salt and the identification of natural antimicrobials that also can be incorporated into the study. Polymer solutions; influence of polymer concentration on fiber diameters; influence of feed rate on polymer diameter; influence of voltage on fiber diameters; influence of distance from syringe tip to fiber collector on fiber diameters; influences of addition of ampicillin on fiber diameters will be studied. One current conclusion is that the addition of salt in the polymer solution does reduce fiber diameter. Other variables to be studied include the zone of inhibition for ampicillin containing yarns of electrospun fibers and ampicillin release time. Electrospinning with chitosan is to be studied. With respect to Objective 3, Dr. Leonas is a principle investigator, in collaboration with Dr. Wadsworth, on the Specialty Crops Research Initiative grant involving biodegradable mulches. See comments related to Dr. Wadsworths presentation for specific information.

Dr. Ioan Negulescu (Louisiana State University)

Objective during the past year has been to prepare biodegradable flame retardant nonwovens reinforced with bio-based polymers. The kinetic parameters of the thermal compositions for these nonwovens was determined. Bio-based polymers may be classified into two groups: PLA and PHA. Experimental material used for project included bagasse fibers. Oxygen Index of the flame retardant bagasse composite was determined. Also, thermogravimetric analyses were conducted. Cotton, rayon and terry towel fabrics were used for experimental purposes. Of these three fabrics, cotton lost the most weight. With respect to mechanical properties of soil degradation, aerobic biodegradation studies were conducted. Compost inoculum was an aged and natural compost consisting of horse bedding, tree trimmings, wood shavings, bark and sieved bark. ASTM D 5338-98 (Reapproved 2003) was the standard of choice. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) work was accomplished. Fungi was found to play a big part in the degradation process.

Dr. Jonathan Chen (University of Texas  Austin)

Dr. Chens research efforts relate to Objective 3: Bio-based Textile Products/Processes to Replace Petrol-based Materials. His topic was titled Spunlaced Flax/Polypropylene Nonwoven Composite for Automotive Interiors. Objectives of the study were to explore the feasibility of using spunlacing technology in automotive nonwoven production; to determine machine settings for fabric production; to determine fabric characteristics of flax/polypropylene blended nonwovens. The project approach involves composite molding whereby a panel or stamp forming press is used for production purposes. Performance evaluation included flexural, tensile, acoustic, impact, moldability and fogging tests. Results indicated a significant reduction in nonwoven fabric thickness, an increase in tensile/flexural strength, and that lower water-jet pressure is necessary for obtaining higher noise absorption and moldability control.

Dr. Vamshi Naarani (Southern University)

Drs. Naarani and Namwamba have been conducting three different studies related to digital printing of safety off-road fabrics. The first study was titled Inks with Fluorescence to Improve Visibility Properties for Safety Apparel. Major objective is to improve fabric visibility properties. Accomplishments include extensive literature review, ink trials, preparation of sample ink sets, degassing and printing trials. The second study was titled Padding Parameters Influence Shade Depth of Digitally Printed Cotton Fabrics. The procedures included different padding speeds with wet pickup values ranging from 84.6% to 98.0%. Shade values included Cyan, Magenta and Yellow. Fabric cross-sections were examined to determine dye penetration. The third study was titled UPFs for Ink-Jet Printed Cotton Fabrics. Four basic colors were used for reactive printing  Yellow, Cyan, Magenta and Black. Results indicated that reactives are better than pigments and the controls; selection of binders is critical to improve the UV resistance; resistance to light and washing is important.

Dr. Seshadri Ramkumar (Texas Tech University)

Dr. Ramkumars presentation included Value-added Technical Textiles with emphasis of decontamination efforts. Protective textiles are the focus of this study. A fabric sample produced at Texas Tech and marketed by Fibertect was shown to committee members. This fabric is a decontamination wipe that is sold by First Line Tech in Washington, DC. Applications for this fabric will be in the areas of military defense, homeland security and industrial markets. This fabric product is a needlepunched nonwoven with activated carbon in the center of two layers. Interlocking of the fibers only occurs at the interface. The fabric is very flexible and will not shred. Cotton has been included in this fabric structure for softness. For the real agent sulfur mustard study, a fabric consisting of three layers  Viscose Rayon, activated carbon for the middle layer, and cotton  was used. The retention of sulfur mustard absorbed by this nonwoven decontamination wipe was determined. Results indicate that the adsorption of the wipe is better than the currently used MP421 lotion for skin protection from the sulfur mustard. A second study, titled New Understandings on Moisture Vapor Transport of Fibrous Materials, indentified the impact of variety on moisture vapor transport. Breeding locations, such as Queensland and New South Wales, Australia, and Mississippi were shown. The cotton fiber extraction process was presented. Results indicated that sugars influence breathability. Immature cotton, having low micronaire and a thin secondary wall, is being used for experimental purposes because it is inexpensive and is biodegradable. USDA already is working on a project to use immature cotton.

Following the oral reports, other items of business included:

The election of officers for the period of May, 2010 to the annual meeting to be held during 2011. The nominating committee consisted of Drs. Negulescu, Leonas and Sarmadi. Nominees were Dr. Warnock for position of chair and Dr. Sharma for position of secretary. Both nominees were elected for their respective positions by acclamation of the committee members.

Discussion concerning two different future projects.

The first one discussed was the new multi-state project. A planning meeting is to be proposed for September with the location being Washington, DC. This plan will need to be accepted by Dr. Shulstad. Dr. Ramkumar volunteered to make hotel and refreshment arrangements, providing the meeting is sanctioned by Dr. Shulstad. This planning meeting will be for 1 ½ days.

The second project discussed concerned an NSF grant application. Dr. Ramkumar will be the contact person. If committee members wish to participate with Dr. Ramkumar on this grant application, contact him as quickly as possible, but no later than July 1, 2010. A half-day meeting is being planned for this project and will be in conjunction with the multi-state project meeting.

In total, the September planning meeting will be for two days. Key topics/words were mentioned as possible foci for the multi-state and grant application projects. These included: fibrous materials, health, national defense, sustainability, and environmental protection.

Biannual report is due for submission to USDA.

A termination report for S-1026 will be due in 2011.

Question - Is a final bulletin for S-1026 necessary?

Updating of current web site used for posting of minutes and other information is necessary.

Meeting adjourned at 3:25 p.m., May 17, 2010.

Respectfully Submitted,


Mary M. Warnock
Secretary, 2009-2010

Accomplishments

Objective 1: To create barrier fabrics with novel finishes and processes for protection against biological threats.<br /> <br /> Tennessee, studying novel finishes, has found that electrostatic charging (EC) of fluorochemical (FC) finished ePTFE membranes have resulted in slightly decreased filtration efficiency to NaCl and DOP aerosols.The EC laminates of ePTFE with spunbond (SB) polypropylene (PP) resulted in increased filtration efficiency. The EC laminates of ePTFE and SB or melt blown (MB) PP fabrics may provide enhanced Warfighter protection with good breathability. Treatment of ePTFE film with one-atmosphere electrical plasma reduced the filtration efficiency and EC treatment further reduced filtration efficiency. Stationary EC treatment of ePTFE films alone was tried for different lengths of time; however, filtration eficiency decreased with increasing EC treatment time. Membranes of ePTFE were stretched biaxially up to 2.2X, but no differences in filtration were noted.<br /> <br /> In order to address Objective 1(b), Colorado studied Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid found in the roots of Coptis chinensis and stems of phellodendron, because of its excellent antimicrobial properties. During this reporting period, the efficacy of berberine chloride as a new antimicrobial agent for medical textiles was investigated. Emphasis was placed on the relationship between bacterial inhibition and concentration of berberine chloride needed to exhibit effective bacterial action. The durability of the antimicrobial agent to laundering and light exposure also was examined. Results showed berberine chloride to be an effective antimicrobial agent against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faccalis when applied on widely used medical textile substrates such as polyester, nylon and cotton-polyester blend. The antimicrobial efficacy of berberine chloride on all three substrates also was retained after laundering and exposure to light.<br /> <br /> In order to determine the effects of biodegradable mulches on soil ecosystems and plant health to ensure a safe, healthy, sustainable and productive food system, Tennessee, Washington State University and Texas A&M have formed an interdisciplinary team. Greenhouse trays were used for fabric/soil burial purposes. Tap water was the wetting agent. Textile tests performed included weight, thickness, breaking load and elongation and tearing strength. Microscopy work showed the fiber breaks.<br /> <br /> Georgia has been studying microencapsulation technology using oils to produce smart textile functionalities that improve human health. Emphasis has been placed on house dust mites and their cause of allergies due to being located in bedding, mattresses and pillows. Thyne and clove oils were used for experimental purposes. Variables considered were the type of oil, ratio of gelatin to oil, stirring speed and surfactant. Morphology also was studied.<br /> <br /> Washington State University's participation under Objective One includes electrospinning efforts. Focus has included evaluation of spinning properties and influence on fiber properties; redsigning of spinning equipment for the alignment of spun fibers and development of yarns and incorporation of antimicrobial chemicals into a matrix. Emphasis was placed on succcessful work using ampicillin salt and the identification of "natural" antimicrobials that also can be incorporated.<br /> <br /> A decontamination wipe has been produced at Texas Tech. Applications for this fabric will be in the areas of military defense, homeland security and industrial markets. This product is a needlepunched nonwoven with activated carbon in the center of two layers. Interlocking of fibers only occurs at the interface. Cotton has been included in the fabric structure for softness. Retention of sulfur mustard absorbed by this nonwoven decontamination wipe was determined. New understandings on moisture vapor transport of fibrous materials identified the impact of variety on moisture vapor transport. Results indicated that sugars influenced breathability.<br /> <br /> Objective 2: To create newer fiber products and designs for textile and apparel products to address fire safety issues.<br /> <br /> The overall objective of the research efforts at Wisconsin was to generate a durable flame retardant treatment on cellulosic materials. A silicon dioxide network coating (armor) was prepared through hydrolysis and condensation of the precursor tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) prior to coating the substrates, and was crosslinked on the surface of the substrates using an atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) technique (may be cross referenced with Objective 1-c). The modified cotton samples were tested for flammability using an automatic 45 degree angle flammability test chamber. Aging tests were conducted to evaluate the coating resistance during the accelerated laundry technique. Due to protection efforts of the silicon dioxide network armor, the cellulosic based fibers exhibited enhanced thermal stability and improved flame retardance. The TEOS/APP treatments were extended to linen fabrics. The thermal analysis showed a higher char content and a strong endothermic process of the treated samples as compared to the controls, indicating a good thermal stability. The surface anlysis proved the existence of the silicon-based coatings on all treated cellulosic substrates after intense ultrasound washes.<br /> <br /> In order to address Objective 2(c), Arkansas collaborated with the Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC)- New Orleans concerning the flammability testing of nonwovens that have different flame retardant finishes. PBI fabric was obtained for construction of a full-size prototype of a newly designed firefighter uniform. Intent is to compare the current required firefighter uniform with newly designed one according to the previously developed Protocol (2008-2009).<br /> <br /> Louisiana has prepared biodegradable flame retardant nonwovens reinforced with bio-based polymers (combined with Objectives 3 and 4). Kinetic parameters for these nonwovens were determined. PLA and PHA were the bio-based polymers. Experimental material used for project included bagasse fibers. Oxygen Index of the flame retardant bagasse composite was determined. Also, thermogravimetric analyses were conducted. Cotton, rayon and terry towel fabrics also were used for other experimental purposes. Of these three fabrics, cotton lost the most weight. With respect to mechanical properties of soil degradation, aerobic biodegradation studies were conducted. Compost inoculum was an aged and natural compost consisting of horse bedding, tree trimmings, wood shavings, bark and sieved bark. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) work was accomplished. Fungi was found to play a large part in the degradation process.<br /> <br /> Objective 3: To develop new bio-based textile products/processes to replace petrol-based materials.<br /> <br /> During the reporting period of 10/1/07-9/30/08, Tennessee was involved in developing the next generation of low-cost, biodegradable mulch nonwoven fabrics to replace polyethylene plastic. This work has been continued during 10/1/09-9/30/10 to include a USDA (SCRI-SREP Grant Award No. 2009-02484) multi-university Specialty Crops Research Initiative (SCRI) project that assesses agricultural, ecological, economic, and social implications, including all inputs and the disposition of wastes and byproducts via systems-based analyses of using biodegradable mulches in protected (high tunnel and low tunnel) specialty crop production systems. University investigators include Washington State University, University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Texas Tech, Texas A&M and Western Washington University. It is believed that nonwoven materials, such as spunbond and meltblown nonwovens comprised of PLA or blends of PLA with other biopolymers, have sufficient attributes to serve as prototypes for the next generation of biodegradable mulches.<br /> <br /> Research at Nebraska-Lincoln on developing new bio-based nonwoven materials has focused on the development of bio-based fibers and fiber mats from plant proteins, such as those from corn, soybean and wheat; wild silks, such as those from Hyalophora cecropia and Saturniidae; and non-traditional carbohydrate based fibers, such as those from corn distillers, dried grains, soybean straws, starch acetates, wheat straws, hop bines, milkweed floss and switchgrass stems. A new crosslinking method for proteins using carboxylic acids at low temperatures has been developed for the improvement of mechanical properties of plant protein fibers and fiber mats. These nonwoven materials have been used as reinforcement materials for composites, tissue engineering scaffolds, and carriers for drug controlled release.<br /> <br /> Objectives of the University of Texas-Austin study were to explore the feasibility of using spunlacing technology in automotive nonwoven production; to determine machine settings for fabric production; and to determine fabric characteristics of flax/polypropylene blended nonwovens. The project approach involved composite molding wherby a panel or stamp forming press was used for production purposes. Performance evaluation included flexural, tensile, acoustic, impact, moldability and fogging tests.<br /> <br /> Accomplishments by Southern University (Louisiana) included an extensive review of literature related to digital printing of safety off-road fabrics; ink trials; preparation of sample ink sets; and degassing and printing trials. The influence of padding parameters on shade depth of digitally printed cotton fabrics included studying different padding speeds with wet pickup values ranging from 84.6% to 98.0%. Shade values included Cyan, Magenta and Yellow. Fabric cross-setions were examined to determine dye penetration. UPFs for ink-jet printed cotton fabrics were studied.<br /> <br />

Publications

Chen, J.Y. (2010). Chapter 10: Nonwoven Textiles in Automotive Interiors. In Applications of Nonwovens in Technical Textiles, Roger Chapman Ed. Woodhead Publishing Ltd, Cambridge, England, 184-201.<br /> <br /> Chen, Y. and N. Jiang. (2009). Carbonized and activated nonwovens as high performance acoustic materials: part II noise insulation. Textile Research Journal, 79(3), 213-218.<br /> <br /> Jiang, N., J.Y. Chen and D.V. Parikh. (2009). Acoustical evaluation of carbonized and activated cotton nonwovens. Bioresource Technology, 100, 6533-6536.<br /> <br /> Jiang, Q., N. Reddy and Y. Yang. (2010). Cytocompatible crosslinking of electrospun zein fibers for the development of water stable tissue engineering scaffolds. Acta Biomaterialia. doi: 10. 1016/j.actbio.2010.04.024.<br /> <br /> Namwamba, G., V. Naarani and D. Thrower. (2010). Improving UV protection of cotton fabrics through digital textile printing. Proceedings of Beltwide Cotton conference. New Orleans, LA.<br /> <br /> Namwamba, G.W., V.K. Naarani and D.L. Dixon. (2010). Effect of padding parameters on shade depth and dye penetration of digitally printed cotton fabrics. Proceedings of the Digital Fabrication Conference.<br /> <br /> Orzada, B.T., M.A. Moore, B.J. Collier and J.Y. Chen. (2009). Effect of laundering on fabric drape, bending and shear. International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, 21(1), 44-55.<br /> <br /> Parikh, D.V., N. Prevost, J. Smith, H. Solhjoo, B. Condon, M. Warnock, J. Chen and G. Bhat. (2009). Green FR cotton barrier nonwovens: progress report. Proceedings of Beltwide Cotton Conference Nonwovens Symposium. San Antonio, TX.<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Y. Yang. (2010). Citric acid crosslinking of starch films. Food Chemistry, 118(3), 702-711.<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Y. Yang. (2010). Light-weight polypropylene composites reinforced with whole chicken feather. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 116(6), 3668-3675.<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Y. Yang. (2010). Morphology and tensile properties of silk fibers produced by uncommon Saturniidae. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 46(4), 419-424.<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Y. Yang. (2010). Non-traditional light-weight polypropylene composites reinforced with milkweed floss. Polymer International, 59(7), 884-890.<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Y. Yang. (2010). Structure and properties of cocoons and silk fibers produced by hyalophora cecropia. Journal of Materials Science, 45(16) 4414-4421.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. and S. Appidi. (2009). Single bath process for imparting antimicrobial activity and ultraviolet protective property to bamboo viscose fabric. Cellulose, 16(5), 923-928.<br /> <br /> Sarkar, A.K. and R. Dhandapani. (2009). Study of natural colorants as antibacterial agents on natural fibers. Journal of Natural Fibers, 6(1), 46-55.<br /> <br /> Totolin, V., M. Sarmadi, S.O. Manolache and F.S. Denes. (2009). Low pressure, non-equilibrium plasma assisted generation of flame retardant cotton. AATCC Review, 9(6).<br /> <br /> Totolin, V., M. Sarmadi, S.O. Manolache and F.S. Denes. (2010). Atmospheric pressure plasma enhanced synthesis of flame retardant cellulosic materials. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 117(1).<br /> <br /> Totolin, V., M. Sarmadi, S.O. Manolache and F.S. Denes. (2010). Obtaining flame retardant cotton fabrics from silicone based compounds by plasma processes. Proceedings of the AATCC International Conference.<br /> <br /> Wadsworth, L.C., C.K. Wong and T.L. Washington. (2010). Development of the next generation of renewable nonwovens for agricultural and disposable hygiene applications. Proceedings of the NatureWorks innovation Takes Root Conference. Dallas, TX.<br /> <br /> Wadsworth, L.C., A. Wszelaki, D.G. Hayes and B.R. Smith. (2009). Development of next generation of biodegradable mulch nonwovens to replace plastic films. Proceedings of the Joint INDA-TAPPI International Nonwovens Technical Conference. Denver, CO.<br /> <br /> Wolf, D., K. Davis and M. Warnock. (2010). Effects of biodegradation on three cellulosic fabrics. Proceedings of Beltwide Cotton Conference Nonwovens Symposium. New Orleans, LA.<br /> <br /> Xu, W. and Y. Yang. (2010). Drug loading onto and release from wheat gluten fibers. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 116(2), 708-717.<br /> <br /> Xu, W. and Y. Yang. (2010). Drug release and its relationship with kinetic and thermodynamic parameters of drug sorption onto starch acetate fibers. Biotechnology and Bioengineering, 105(4), 814-822.<br /> <br /> Xu, W. and Y. Yang. (2010). Relationship between drug release and some physical parameters of drug sorption onto PLA fibers. Journal of Biomaterials Science: Polymer Edition, 21(4), 445-462.<br /> <br /> Zhou, W. and Y. Yang. (2010). Improving the resistance of sulfur dyes to oxidation. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research, 49(10), 4720-4725.<br /> <br /> Zou, Y., S. Huda and Y. Yang. (2010). Light-weight composites from long wheat straw and polypropylene web. Bioresource Technology, 101(6) 2026-2033.<br /> <br /> Zou, Y., N. Reddy and Y. Yang. (2010). Utilizing hop bines as reinforcements for lightweight polypropylene composites. Journal of Applied Polymer Science, 116(4), 2366-2373.<br /> <br /> Zou, Y., H. Xu and Y. Yang. (2010). Lightweight polypropylene composites reinforced by long switchgrass stems. Journal of Polymers and the Environment. DOI: 10.1007/s 10924-010-0165-4.<br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

Impact Statements

1. Plant-derived antimicrobial compounds such as berberine chloride could potentially be alternatives to methicillin-resistant Staphlococcus aureus or vancomycin-resistant Enterococci
2. Silica-based coatings used in conjunction with plasma processes have high potential to obtain green flame retardant cellulosic materials with applications in the development of upholstered furniture, clothing and military applications.
3. Scientists, mulch manufacturers, agricultural industry members, and specialty crop growers will gain a better understanding of biodegradable mulch technologies including physical, chemical and manufacturing properties that may prove efficacious and affordable. Specialty fruit and vegetable crop growers who utilize mulches in protected agriculture will have access to new information regarding high tunnel management, including how to optimize crop productivity, reduce labor and waste disposal costs, and minimize pest and disease threats. The creation of new biodegradable mulch prototypes from plant-derived polymers will result in a decreased need for petroleum-based feedstocks in mulch manufcturing, reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and the amount of used agricultural plastics entering the waste stream.
4. Agricultural wastes such as soybean straws, starch acetates, wheat straws, hop bines, milkweed floss, switchgrass stems, and poultry feathers can be used as reinforcement materials for thermoplastic composites.
5. Information has been provided to researchers and industries for the selecting of the appropriate renewable resources and application conditions for the development of fibrous materials and nonwoven technologies in textiles, composites and medical industries.
6. Biofibers research provides opportunities to add billions of dollars to the (Nebraska) economy, add jobs, and for the textile and materials industries to decrease their dependence on petroleum, and increase their sustainability.
7. Improved barrier and comfort properties of ePTFE Membranes and Composites have been recognized as being useful to the US Army, especially in Force Protection and Survivability.
8. Effective protective apparel is critical to the health and safety of those in work positions related to healthcare and homeland security.
9. Microencapsulation technology, along with vacuum drying, provide an effective process to prevent aggregation of microcapsules as related to the use of oils to produce smart textile functionalities and improve human health.
10. Production of sugar cane derived bio-based plasticizers coupled with the use of bagasse in technical materials will have a positive impact on the US sugar cane industry.
11. Spunlacing technology has proven that this nonwoven product can be used in the automotive industry to obtain higher noise absorption and moldability control.
12. Homeland security, health and protection, especially as related to military activities, can be influenced and aided by a newly developed decontamination wipe.

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Drs. Suraj Sharma (University of Georgia); Ioan Negulescu (Louisiana State University); Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville); Majid Sarmadi (University of Wisconsin-Madison); Rinn Cloud (Baylor University); Ajoy Sarkar (Colorado State University); Yiqi Yang (University of Nebraska- Lincoln)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Meeting with Dr. Carmela A. Bailey, NIFA National Program Leader-Agricultural Materials

Participants met in Channel Hotel lobby at 3:15 p.m. on September 24 to discuss objectives, etc. for visit with USDA personnel. Following are the highlights of this meeting, held in USDA building at 4:00 p.m.:

-Major reorganization in USDA with discipline focuses (e.g. soils and bioenergy).

-Bioenergy has been recently the high priority area compared to biobased products.

-Biomass feedstocks of priority are switch grass, energy cane, oil crops, woody mass, sorghum.

-AFRI program is no more a single investigator and does not have textile in its scope. Now this program requires large coordinated agricultural consortia of various disciplines - CAP (coordinated agricultural projects). Three awards, each of $9 M for 5 years, would be granted.

-Criticism for CAPs from various stakeholders (faculty, research fellow, etc.)

-Biobased materials have long-term future, but current focus is on bioenergy (ethanol, hydrocarbon fuel, etc.).

-Critical agricultural material program is on radar to be axed by congress.

-In 2011 there is a possibility of the critical agricultural material solicitation in partnership with DoD.

-Biomass Research and Development Initiative (BRDI) solicitation for 2011 includes funding support of around $30 M from USDA and $5M from DoE. This year's solicitation has opportunity for biobased products also. Attention for overall life cycle-team can include social scientist, biological scientist, economist, sociologist, etc.

The S-1026 Technical Committee Multistate Research Project Meeting, held in the State Room at the Channel Inn in Washington, DC was called to order by chair person, Dr. Warnock, at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 25, 2010.

General discussion involved the following topics:

-Begin organizational plans and discussion for new Multistate Research Project proposal

-Termination report

-Development of New Research proposal

-Drs. Parikh and French from ARS-USDA would be asked for collaboration (e.g., use of facility) for this new research proposal.

-Seven states committed to participate: Georgia, Louisiana, Washington, Tennessee, Wisconsin, Texas, and Colorado. Participant members include Drs. Negulescu, Sharma, Sarkar, Yang, Chen, Sarmadi, Leonas, Wadsworth, Seshadri, Cloud

-Dr. Shulstad, Administrator Advisor, at Atlanta annual meeting and Dr. Bailey, NIFA National Program Leader, stressed collaboration and a multidisciplinary approach of including a possible statistician, biologist, economist, or sociologist on the project.

-Members introduced their 5-10 year vision and current research for seeking more interaction and collaboration.

Dr. Ajoy Sarkar:

-biobased industrial agricultural products

-antimicrobial finishes

Dr. Ioan Negulescu:

-biobased material

-metabolism of PHA, PLA

-nonwovens-bagasse

-solid state characterization and chemical characterization

-algae pyrolysis

Dr. Yiqi Yang:

-agricultural bioproducts (protein, cellulosic) for textile, composite and medical

-dry, wet and melt spinning facilities

-cell culture

Dr. Suraj Sharma:

-biobased plastics/composites from biomass such as vegetable oils, proteins and lignocelluloses

-algal bioproducts

-microencapsulation of essential oils

-medical implants

-Molding (RTM, compression) facility

Dr. Majid Sarmadi:

-Plasma technology to save water and energy by modifying properties of fiber, film and composites

-flammability (automotive and airplanes)

Dr. Rinn Cloud:

-product levels (protection, safety)

-design facilities

-physical testing

Through this introduction the following four themes were identified:

-biobased materials

-fiber production

-composites

-antimicrobial

Through our brainstorming process we have identified the following as a draft for a title and objectives for the new research proposal. Every participant member is required to contribute towards the justification and the current state of knowledge (review of literature). It was agreed to remove textile and dye words from the new proposed research project. In addition, everyone agreed that focus should be towards biobased fibrous materials and products. Moreover, participant members kept in mind that these objectives should not overlap with S1041 committee "The Science and Engineering for a Biobased Industry and Economy."

Tile: Sustainable Products from Biobased Fibrous Materials

Objectives
1. To develop novel biobased polymeric materials.
2. To develop and evaluate biobased fibrous products for eco-friendly crop protection.
3. To develop and evaluate biobased products for health and safety applications.
4. Life cycle analysis (LCA) of biobased fibrous materials.

List of members showing their intent to participate in above objectives.

Objective # Participant Universities

1 Louisiana, Nebraska, Georgia, Texas-Austin
2 Louisiana, Colorado, Georgia, Washington, Tennessee
3 Wisconsin, Colorado, Texas-Baylor, Georgia, Nebraska, Texas- Tech, Louisiana, Washington
4 All participating universities

Following members were identified to lead editing works for this new research proposal

Dr. Ioan Negulescu: Editor for objective # 1

Dr. Karen Leonas (?): Editor for objective # 2

Dr. Ajoy Sarkar: Editor for objective # 3

Dr. Ioan Negulescu: Editor for objective # 4

Dr. Yiqi Yang: Editor-in-chief

Dr. Majid Sarmadi: Sub Editor-in-chief

Timeline:

October 10, 2010: send intent of participation from members for respective objective to Dr. Warnock, Chair person.

February 1, 2011: objective editors to send their first draft to editor-in-chief

participants follow the standard template (Appendix A: Format for Multistate Research Project Proposals). Go to http://www.umes.edu/cms300uploadedfiles/mrf_guidelines_revised_(10-2006)5.pdf for Guidelines for Multistate Research Activities.

Follow APA style for reference citation.

March 1, 2011: editor-in-chief presents first proposal draft to objective-editors

March 15, 2011: objective editors submit the revision to the editor-in-chief.

March 25, 2011: editor-in chief sends edited research proposal to participants.

March 31-April 2, 2011: annual meeting is proposed with the location being Washington, DC. This plan will need to be accepted by Dr. Shulstad. Dr. Sharma volunteered to make hotel and refreshment arrangements, providing the meeting is approved by Dr. Shulstad.

Invite program leaders from NIFA and other speakers (possible visitor from Louisiana for life cycle analysis) on Friday morning. Dr. Negulescu volunteered to arrange these speakers.

Polishing new proposed research project and presenting annual reports on Friday evening and Saturday morning.

Question: We need to ask Dr. Shulstad about S1026s NIFA representative. Like Dr. Bailey for S-1041 committee.

A termination report for S-1026 will be due 6 months after termination of this proposal, i.e., March 31, 2012. Members agreed not to discuss the preparation of this report at this time and moved discussion until the fall meeting when final S-1026 reports will be given.

Meeting adjourned at 4:20 p.m., September, 26, 2010.

Respectfully Submitted,
Suraj Sharma
Secretary, 2010-2011

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Committee Members: Drs. Suraj Sharma (University of Georgia-Athens); Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville); Majid Sarmadi (University of Wisconsin-Madison); Yiqi Yang (University of Nebraska- Lincoln); Karen Leonas (Washington State University-Pullman)

Brief Summary of Minutes

The S-1026 Technical Committee Multistate Research Project Meeting, held in Suite 250 at the Channel Inn in Washington, DC was called to order by chair person, Dr. Warnock, at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, April 22, 2011.

After greeting members were addressed by Dr. Robert Shulstad. Here are notes
from his comments:

Outlook for 2012 is highly uncertain and in budget process areas of emphasis what is important what is not. Funding for non agricultural resources is coming under pressure from traditional agriculture.

As we go into this proposal make sure is current and talk about farmers, economically creating jobs in that area. New appendix H evaluation form used by evaluation committee; so use as Bible and look closely for criteria and address each and everyone. Traditionally reviewers comprise of more laboratory folks that follow scientific methods. Devote plenty of time to work on this  initial statements/issues/justifications. Also pay attention to relating current
work and previous work. Measurements of progress and results should be well addressed.

These proposals are now being evaluated along with AFRI so make sure of integration of research and extension and total team efforts rather than aggregation.

During each research and extension associations meetings common theme is have involvement of industry on front end  interaction of industry partners in defining new research goals. Carnegie Mellon University, a totally private university, is the largest recipient of USDA competitive funding. Research is done mostly by engineering and then partner with universities with extension such as WSU, Oregon State and Penn State. New research proposal document needs to be communicated with various people (industry/users) to justify work. Documentation states that people in nonacademic world feels there is problem and this work will address this problem.

Reason why everyone is putting greater effort in the evaluation of projects is to form partnerships that will provide collaborations that will lead to obtaining competitive federal grants. Decrease number of objectives and have everyone working on same page. Better spring board for moving forward.

Following are fuel for life: integrated projects; cooperation across lines that is real; history of sharing equipment; history of being involved at different stages along the processing information; now need outreach component; identifying clientele and figure out how to help them.

Dr. Shulstad has asked for extension of S1026 project. Formal extension process is prepared to send in for extension and therefore allowing termination on September 30, 2012. New proposal should be ready for review by June 2012. Development committee will take 4 to 6 weeks.

Therefore, write draft of project outline and finish proposal by this summer for next year starting. Request development committee this summary including justification why this has to be done at multiple institutions, who will benefit and why to put funds in this project rather than other projects. Must be responding to REAL NEED! Must show clientele needs! Each of objectives must fit under multistate participation/clientele identified/how do citizens benefit.

The following annual progress reports were shared:

Dr. Mary Warnock (University of Arkansas-Fayetteville):

Dr. Warnock had already completed all work and presented last year during annual progress report meeting at Atlanta, GA.

Dr. Karen Leonas (Washington State University-Pullman):

Dr. Leonas reported work related to development of yarn composed of electrospun fibers and evaluation of biodegradable mulches. Please see Appendix A for details.

Dr. Suraj Sharma (University of Georgia-Athens):

Dr Sharma reported research work related to the development of microcapsules loaded with essential oils to produce smart textiles. His research primarily looked at effect of essential oils such as rosemary and peppermint as an acaricides. Please see Appendix B for details.

Dr. Majid Sarmadi (University of Wisconsin-Madison):

Dr. Sarmadi's lab was undergoing renovation therefore he did not receive funding for this academic year.

Dr. Yiqi Yang (University of Nebraska-Lincoln):

Dr. Yang reported research related to the development of biocomposites from plant proteins matrices reinforced with jute and switchgrass. Research related to the development of nonwoven scaffolds from Zein for tissue engineering applications was also presented. Please see Appendix C for details.

Other items of business included:

Dr. Sharma was elected for the chair position by acclamation of the committee members.

Members proposed to request Dr. Sarkar to hold the Secretary position.

New Research Proposal

Members from Georgia, Nebraska, Washington, Tennessee and Wisconsin contributed in the initial draft edited by Dr. Yang.

A deadline was set for drop dead submission of information to Dr. Yang. If this
deadline is missed, this person cannot be associated with this new project proposal.

Deadline is 5:00 PM ET on May 16, 2011.

May 26th 2011. Dr. Yang will send draft to Dr. Sarmadi

June 15th 2011. Dr Sarmadi will send draft to committee for review

July 11th 2011. Committee responds back to Drs Yang and Sarmadi

August 1st 2011. Proposal is done and sent to Dr. Shulstad.

Meeting adjourned at 4:00 p.m., April, 22, 2011.

Respectfully Submitted,

Suraj Sharma, Secretary, 2010-2011

Accomplishments

Under following three objectives of S1026 research group this accomplishment report for 10/10 to 10/11 focuses on intended activities and outputs.<br /> <br /> Objective 1: To create barrier fabrics with novel finishes and processes for protection against biological threats. <br /> <br /> Objective 2: To create newer fiber products and designs for textile and apparel <br /> products to address fire safety issues. <br /> <br /> Objective 3: To develop new bio-based textile products/processes to replace petrol-based materials. <br /> <br /> Outputs: <br /> <br /> Dr. Yang's group, for the first time in the world, have demonstrated that agricultural wastes such as switchgrass stems could be used as reinforcement materials for thermoplastic composites, especially for the light-weight composites. His group also has developed first time 100% biocomposites using cellulosic fibers as reinforcement materials and plant proteins as matrix without using any chemicals as plasticizer. They have also proven that plant protein nonwoven scaffolds are excellent materials for cell culture and for controlled drug release. They have demonstrated that silk nonwoven webs made by insects have properties very similar to commonly used silk fibers and has potential to be commercially used as new silk fibers.<br /> <br /> Results shared by Dr. Leonas's group showed that, within spinnable range, smaller voltage which results in larger fiber diameter leads to larger yarn tensile tenacity. Continuous fibers were collected from spinning solutions of 14% PCL plus chitosan from 2.5% to 12% concentration. By studying the fiber diameters, it was found that the fiber collector rotating speed had the largest influence among all the variables studied, including voltage, distance, and feed rate. <br /> <br /> Other research by Dr. Leonas's group was on degradation behavior of mulches. All products evaluated in this study, both BDM and non-BDM mulches, showed a loss of physical properties (strength and elongation) after exposure in high tunnel and open field environments. There were changes in MW indicating degradation of the products. SEM micrographs showed cracks and pitting of the starch based BDMs. There were no other patterns with regard to location or environment that could be determined based on mulch type. In comparing the influence of open field and high tunnel environments on strength loss, almost two-thirds of the samples had increased strength loss when in the open field. This result was expected as sunlight intensity and other weathering factors are thought to increase degradation. Cellulose had the greatest loss of strength in the open field indicating that it was more readily degraded by sunlight and other weather factors when compared with the starch-based mulch products, SB PLA and PE film. The SB PLA did not show increased degradation compared with other BDMs studied here.<br /> <br /> In research by Dr. Sharma's group, simple coacervation technique was used to develop essential oils loaded microcapsules and then observing their acarcidial effectiveness. Clove and Thyme oils were found to be effective acaricides. His results showed that stirring speed and type of oil (viscosity effect) were the critical variables to control the size of microcapsules. In addition, it was demonstrated that vacuum drying could be an effective process to prevent aggregation of microcapsules and attach physically to the fabric without any binder. In another study, through bioassay against HDM (Der.f), they observed that clove containing phenolic compound (85% eugenol) was more effective in reducing the number of house dust mites than thyme oil.

Publications

Reddy, N. and Yang, Y., Biocomposites Developed Using Water Plasticized Wheat Gluten as Matrix and Jute Fibers as Reinforcement . Polymer International. 60(4)711-716(2011).<br /> <br /> Jiang, Q., and Yang, Y. Water Stable Electrospun Zein Fibers for Potential Drug Delivery. Journal of Biomaterials Science: Polymer Edition. 22, 1393-1408(2011).<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Yang, Y., Completely Biodegradable Soyprotein-Jute Biocomposites Developed Using Water without any Chemicals as Plasticizer. Industrial Crops and Products. 33(1) 35-41 (2011).<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Yang, Y., Structure and Properties of Ultrafine Silk Fibers Produced by Theriodopteryx ephemeraeformis. Journal of Materials Science. 45(24) 6617-6622(2010).<br /> <br /> Reddy, N. and Yang, Y., Structure and Properties of Silk Fibers Produced by Antheraea polyphemus. Journal of Biobased Materials and Bioenergy. 4(4) 367-371(2010).<br /> <br /> Zou, Y., Xu, H., and Yang, Y., Lightweight Polypropylene Composites Reinforced by Long Switchgrass Stems, Journal of Polymers and the Environment. 18(4) 464-473(2010).<br /> <br /> Jiang, Q., Reddy, N., Yang, Y. Cytocompatible Crosslinking of Electrospun Zein Fibers for the Development of Water Stable Tissue Engineering Scaffolds. Acta Biomaterialia. 6(10) 4042-4051(2010).<br /> <br /> Kim, Joo-Ran and Sharma, Suraj (2010). Microencapsulation Technology Using Essential Oils to Produce Acaricides Against House Dust Mites, Herman and Myrtle Goldstein Student paper competition, AATCCs International Conference, Atlanta, GA<br /> <br /> Joo Ran Kim, M.S. in Textiles, Merchandising and Interiors with an emphasis in Textile Science  August 2010; Thesis Title: Microencapsulation Technology Using Essential Oils to Produce Acaricides against House Dust Mites<br /> <br /> Kim, Joo Ran; *Sharma, Suraj. Microencapsulation Technology Using Essential Oils to Produce Durable Textile Functionalities. Abstracts of Papers, 2011 Beltwide Cotton Conferences, Atlanta, GA, United States, January 4-7, 2011.<br /> <br /> Kim, Joo Ran, and Sharma, Suraj, Acaricidal Activities Of Clove Bud Oil And Red Thyme Oil Using Microencapsulation Against House Dust Mites, Journal of Microencapsulation, 29(1):82-91, 2011. <br /> <br /> Liu, H. and Leonas, K.K. Weight loss and morphology changes of electrospun poly(µ caprolactone) yarns during in vitro degradation. Fibers and Polymers, Vol. 5, No. 4, pp 10-19, 2010.<br /> <br /> Liu, H., Leonas K. K., and Zhao,Y. Antimicrobial properties and release profile of ampicillin from electrospun polycaprolactone nanofiber yarns. Journal of Engineered Fiber and Fabrics; Vol. 11, No. 7, pp 1024-1031, 2010.<br /> <br /> Miles, C., Inglis, D., Leonas, K, Moore-Kucera, J., Wxzelaki, A, Wallace, R., Hayes, D., Wadsworth, L., Evaluating potential biodegradable mulches for high tunnel and field vegetable production. 2010 Agricultural Plastics Congress Proceedings, July 31  August 1, 2010, Palm Desert, CA.

Impact Statements

1. Dr. Yang&lsquo;s research on PLA has been broadened to the comparison of the properties and performance of PLA and PHBV. The main focus is on the applications of these PHAs as tissue engineering scaffolds. His research on new bio-based non-woven materials has been focused on the development of ultrafine fiber mats from zein for medical applications.
2. More specifically, Dr. Yang&lsquo;s group has produced biocompatible and water stable zein nonwovens for drug delivery and tissue engineering. Biocomposites were developed using fiber mats from jute and switchgrass as reinforcements and plant proteins, such as soyproteins and wheat gluten as the matrix materials. His group has also identified nontraditional natural protein nonwovens made by insects for potential applications in biomedical engineering and other arenas.
3. According to Dr. Leonas, the Electrospinning apparatus was installed during 2009 and projects evaluating the impact of polymer and processing variables have been completed. The first of these involved elecrtospinning of Poly(µ  caprolactone) (PCL) with ampicillin and the second was electrospinning of PCL with Chitosan.
4. In Dr. Leonas&lsquo;s first project, polymer molecular weight (MW), ampicillin concentration, polymer viscosity, polymer feed rate, spinning voltage, spinning distance, and fiber collector rotating speed were independent variables researched on their influence on spinnability, fiber diameter, fiber surface morphology, and yarn tensile properties. In the next project, the first step was to find a proper solvent to dissolve PCL and chitosan mixture to achieve a homogeneous polymer solution. Acetic acid, formic acid, chloroform, and their mixtures were tried and chloroform was chosen. Solutions with different polymer concentration, chitosan concentration, and solution viscosity were spun to obtain continuous fibers.
5. Dr. Leonas was also involved in another project, a three-year, multistate and multidisciplinary research project, funded by NIFA Specialty Crops Research Initiative (number 2009-02484). This research project is focusing on the evaluation of experimental and currently available biodegradable mulch (BDM) products, in both high tunnels and open field tomato production systems at three sites in the US (TN, TX, WA). Future work to evaluating a SB product with PLA of lower MW, finer fibers in the SB structure, and colored with black pigment is planned.
6. Dr. Sharma&lsquo;s group used simple coacervation method to develop microcapsules loaded with essential oils such as clove and thyme. A factorial design method was used to determine the effect of most influential variables (type of oil, oil to gelatin ratio, stirring speed and surfactant) on the size of microcapsules. This study showed that coacervation method is useful to produce thermally stable microcapsules from natural-based materials. Microencapsulation approach seems cost effective and environmentally friendly to provide durable, long-term health effects to cotton textiles. Further study using rosemary and peppermint essential oils is undergoing and fumigation method promises their effectiveness as an acaricides.

Back to top