Figure 1.

Field-emission scanning electron micrographs (FE-SEM) and corresponding energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectra of (A) SilverMax polyester textile and (B) HVAC textile. The SilverMax fibers were treated by a finishing process (light gray coating on fibers in images) that was incomplete in some places. The higher magnification images show numerous nanoparticles adhered to the surface of the light gray coating. The EDX spectra of the nanoparticles and surrounding light gray coating identified silver. HVAC polyester/lycra textile was prepared by a masterbatch process in which the silver was incorporated into the polymer fibers during production. The HVAC fibers had a smooth appearance and no nanoparticles were visible on fiber surfaces. The EDX spectra identified carbon, calcium, oxygen, and sulfur; silver was not detected.