Molecular diagnostics and evaluation of antibacterial activity of citrus limetta on textiles.

During the extraction of juice from Citrus limetta, huge amount of by-products especially peel is generated. The peel contains good amount of phytochemical having many health benefits. The presence of bitter compound in peel limits its application in human foods. This study has been undertaken to apply peel of Citrus limetta bio extract on woven cotton textiles for antibacterial finish. With a view to understand the effect of various functional groups present in the plant, molecular characterisation was done using FTIR. Chemical groups responsible for antibacterial behaviour and the chemical structure of this plant were investigated through GCMS. Citrus limetta treated fabric has greater colour depth (K/S value) at higher concentration in comparison to fabrics treated with lower concentrations. Zone of inhibition in Citrus limetta treated fabrics reveal that it has excellent antibacterial effect against Escherichia.coli and Listeria monocytogeneus bacteria. Cotton fabrics also generate fragrance after treatment with Citrus limetta. Fragrance intensity ratings of 200 respondents have been evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]