Silver Fibres

How Silver Fibres Work

Silver fibres provide antimicrobial protection through the oligodynamic effect; the biocidal property of heavy metals. When bacteria come into contact with silver ions (Ag+), the ions:

1. Bind to bacterial cell membranes, disrupting their structure and function. 2. Interfere with bacterial enzyme systems, preventing respiration and metabolism. 3. Damage bacterial DNA, preventing replication.

This provides continuous, natural antibacterial protection without chemical treatments. Research published in the Journal of Textile Science (2021) found that silver-infused fabric reduces bacterial growth by 99.9%.

In bedding, this is particularly relevant because the warm, moist environment of the sleep surface is ideal for bacterial growth. Sweat, dead skin cells, and body heat create conditions where bacteria thrive; leading to odour, allergen buildup, and reduced hygiene between washes. Silver fibres address this naturally.

Journal of Textile Science (2021). | Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (2020).

Silver's Cooling Properties

Silver is the most thermally conductive metal known, with a thermal conductivity of 407 W/m·K; higher than copper (401), gold (318), or aluminium (237). When silver particles are infused into textile fibres, they increase the thermal conductivity of the fabric, allowing it to transfer heat away from the skin more efficiently.

However, the cooling benefit of silver fibres is modest because: 1. The silver content in textile fibres is typically very low (a few percent by weight). 2. The primary cooling mechanism of any fabric is moisture management and air permeability, not raw thermal conductivity. 3. Phase-change materials (CoolTouch®) and moisture-wicking fibres (TENCEL™) provide much stronger cooling through their respective mechanisms.

Silver fibres are best understood as an antimicrobial technology with a modest secondary cooling benefit; not as a primary cooling solution. For comprehensive cooling, silver fibres should be combined with phase-change fabric and moisture-wicking natural fibres.

CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics. | AATCC Test Method 195.

Silver Fibres in Sleep Hygiene

Silver fibres play an important role in sleep hygiene, particularly for:

1. Hot sleepers who sweat more: Increased sweating creates a more hospitable environment for bacteria. Silver fibres prevent bacterial growth and the associated odour.

2. Allergy sufferers: Silver's antimicrobial properties reduce the allergen load (bacteria, mould, mildew) in the sleep environment.

3. Sensitive skin: Silver fibres provide antibacterial protection without the chemical treatments used on some "antibacterial" bedding, which can irritate sensitive skin.

4. Extended freshness: Between washes, silver-infused bedding stays fresher longer; useful in hot climates like the UAE where frequent washing may be necessary.

The Sleep Lab™ integrates antimicrobial technology across its product range through naturally antimicrobial materials (TENCEL™ Lyocell, natural latex, silk) and mineral-infused fibres (GLACIO®) that provide natural antibacterial properties without chemical treatments.

Silver Nanotechnology Working Group. | Lenzing AG. TENCEL™ Technical Data.