We have demonstrated that capsaicin embedded homogeneously
in a silica matrix can form an antibacterial
coating on wool fabrics. This silica from a sol-gel process
could be an ideal host for the capsaicin molecules
for prolonged antibacterial effect. The laundry washes
resulted in some reduction in the antibacterial efficiency,
but capsaicin was still attached to the fibers
after laundering. More studies are warranted to
broaden the capsaicin concentration range and improve
the coating durability.