Abstract: A method for forming a metallic nanoparticle and semiconductor coated fiber material is provided. The method can include the steps of coating at least one surface of a material, for example a textile material, with a semiconducting layer, and growing metallic nanoparticles on the semiconducting layer. The steps for coating the surface of the material with a semiconducting layer can include forming a titanium dioxide film on the surface of the textile material. The steps for forming metallic nanoparticles on a semiconducting layer can include immersing the coated textile layer in a metallic nanoparticle precursor solution, drying the coated textile layer and exposing the textile layer to UV radiation. The metallic nanoparticles can include gold and/or silver nanoparticles. Also disclosed are materials having a least one treated surface coated with metallic nanoparticles. The treated surface may comprise the surface of a textile material treated according to the methods provided herein.

Abstract: A method for forming superior and stable metallic nanoparticle and semiconductor coated fiber materials is provided. The method can include the steps of coating at least one surface of a material, for example a textile material, with a semiconducting layer, and growing metallic nanoparticles directly on the semiconducting layer. The steps for coating the surface of the material with a semiconducting layer can include forming a titanium dioxide film on the surface of the textile material, immersing the coated textile layer in a metallic nanoparticle precursor solution, drying the coated textile layer and exposing the textile layer to UV radiation. The metallic nanoparticles can include gold and/or silver nanoparticles. Also disclosed are materials resistant to microbes, including bacteria and viruses. These materials comprise at least one treated surface coated with metallic nanoparticles. The treated surface may comprise the surface of a textile material, such as a cotton fiber surface.