In line with the objectives of the funding call, particularly Spoke 4.11 – Circularity and sustainability in textile production, the RITECA project is developing eco-sustainable nanometric coatings that are scalable and applicable to textile substrates of natural origin.
These are nanometric coatings based on biopolymers and/or recyclable polymers, combined with carbon-based fillers derived from waste (biochar), functionalized with antimicrobial species. The process is solvent-free and designed for low energy consumption.
The functionalization of the biochar allows for the chemical anchoring of metal nanoparticles (Ag and Cu) with antimicrobial properties, limiting their aggregation, increasing oxidation stability, and preserving antimicrobial activity over time.
Recent scientific advancements have opened new horizons in the development of technologies that add novel functionalities to conventional textiles, leading to high-tech fabrics for various applications.
RITECA aims to develop eco-sustainable antimicrobial technologies for textiles.
Special attention is given to antimicrobial treatments that enhance comfort for everyday and sportswear — by inhibiting bacterial growth in sweat-exposed areas — as well as to biomedical applications to support wound healing.
Beneficiari
The research focuses on designing, producing and characterizing eco-sustainable nanocomposite antimicrobial coatings, enriched with biomass-derived carbon fillers for natural fabrics.
The project will develop and test a textile prototype with antimicrobial properties, assessing its stability and long-term performance.
Work Packages
WP1. Silver-based antibacterial treatment (DMS) – Months 0–9
1.1 Preliminary evaluation of the substrate
1.2 Definition of process parameters (impregnation solution composition, deposition method, UV exposure time)
1.3 Substrate functionalization
1.4 Antibacterial characterization of substrates
1.5 Feasibility study for process scale-up to increase TRL
WP2. Nanocomposite coating treatment (DII) – Months 0–9
2.1 Preliminary evaluation of the substrate
2.2 Development and characterization of nanocomposite coatings with biopolymers and Ag-decorated carbon fillers
2.3 Definition of process parameters
2.4 Antibacterial characterization of substrates
WP3. Treatment using biomass-derived carbon fillers (Biochar) (DII) – Months 0–9
3.1 Preliminary evaluation of the substrate
3.2 Functionalization of biochar from biomass
3.3 Development and characterization of nanometric coatings with functionalized biochar
3.4 Preparation and characterization of biochar-based nanocomposites with Ag nanoparticles
3.5 Antibacterial characterization of substrates
WP4. Evaluation of the synergistic effect of treatments (ALL) – Months 6–12
4.1 Application of multiple WP treatments on the same substrate
4.2 Antimicrobial performance assessment
WP5. Prototype development (ALL) – Months 12–18
5.1 Prototype realization
5.2 Prototype testing
WP6. Results dissemination (ALL) – Months 12–18
6.1 Scientific dissemination
KEY FIGURES
RESEARCHERS INVOLVED
NEW HIRES EXPECTED
PROJECT DURATION
NUMBER OF WORK PACKAGES (WPS)
STARTING TRL
FINAL TRL
Project n.: PE_00000004
MADE IN ITALY CIRCOLARE E SOSTENIBILE
Tax Code. 97931690156
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