Antimicrobial activity of textile fabrics dyed with prodigiosin pigment extracted from marine Serratia rubidaea RAM_Alex bacteria

The enthusiasm for natural dyes applications increased thanks to biodegradable and eco-friendly properties. In this study, prodigiosin was extracted from Serratia rubidaea RAM_Alex. This red pigment was used in dyeing different textile fabrics. Synthetic fabrics had a higher affinity to the natural dye compared to cotton fabrics. Copper sulfate proved to be an effective mordant. Fabrics dyed with prodigiosin showed a considerable degree of fastness to light and washing. Dyed samples with prodigiosin have antimicrobial activity, which is varied in consonance with the nature of the fabric and microbial species. Both Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were inhibited. Application of the natural pigment prodigiosin to certain textiles particularly those used in hospitals would lead to a significant decrease in hospital-acquired infections (HAI), patient outcomes improvement and economical saving.