Microwave Sanitization of Polyester and Cotton

Abstract

The potential of using 2450-MHz microwave radiation to dry and sterilize polyester and cotton fabrics was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus cereus. B. cereus spores were the most tolerant microorganisms of microwave radiation, and E. coli were the most sensitive. All S. aureus and E. coli cells were killed within seven minutes of exposure to microwave radiation. Fabric conditions of steam released and steam retained did not affect the percentage reduction in microorganisms. Microwave drying was substantially more effective than convection oven drying. Microwave exposure had no effect on the elongation of polyester and cotton, but cotton's strength decreased 10% after five minutes of microwave exposure.