Using NIR, researchers can measure the conversion of vegetable oil to biodiesel fuel in less than a minute. NIR, coupled with a fiber-optic probe, uses light rather than chemicals to perform the analysis. The new test will help biodiesel fuel producers determine if their products meet the quality standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials. ARS and University of Georgia researchers report. It works by creating an unfavorable environment for the microbes on and around the fibers of cotton, polyester and other fabrics used to make clothing, linens and other textile products.
Staph bacteria can cause skin, wound and other infections.
Brevibacterium causes foot odor. Both of the fungi can trigger allergies and asthma. More research is needed to confirm the finding. But early indications are the treatment could give clothing and textile makers a new way to incorporate antimicrobial properties into apparel or health care products like underpads used by people with incontinence. So, fabric-infecting germs should be less apt to develop resistance.