[Image above] Credit: American Chemical Society, Reactions, YouTube
Today I’d like to talk about a subject that is kind of personal.
Sometimes you, or rather your clothes, stink after your workout. It’s not really your fault, though.
Some workout clothes trap bacteria that cause body odor as well as the fatty acid in your skin on which they feed, according to the American Chemical Society.
In case you didn’t already know this, one element in the periodic table can solve that problem: Silver.
Scientists have known for quite a while that silver has antibacterial properties as it interrupts bacterial growth and cell division. Silver is already used in the medical industry, food packaging, and many other industries for its antibacterial properties.
And as you can imagine, silver’s superpowers have spawned several businesses.
Lululemon has trademarked Silverescent as its solution to B.O. Kleen Apparel touts its cutting edge “Kleen Silver Technology powered by PurThread in its marketing. Nanosilver has an entire line of sports clothing that incorporates “antibacterial nanoparticles of silver.” Even chemical industry veteran Dow Chemical has trademarked its own version of silver antimicrobial technology.
According to today’s video from the American Chemical Society, it doesn’t take a lot of silver nanoparticles to ward off bacteria. Which is good because when that silver eventually washes off, it will end up somewhere in the environment.
The video also mentions that researchers should continue to improve existing technology by focusing on using smaller amounts of silver nanoparticles that can stick more tightly to fabrics. Not only will it lessen your smell, but the use of less water to wash the garments is ultimately better for the environment.
Watch the video to learn more about how silver nanoparticles can kill bacteria and save you from embarrassment.
Credit: American Chemical Society, Reactions, YouTube