Technologies
Coatings: Biopolymers from Bacteria Protect Technical Textiles
Textiles for technical applications often derive their special function via the application of coatings. This way, textiles become, for example, wind and waterproof or more resistant to abrasion. Usually, petroleum-based substances such as polyacrylates or polyurethanes are used. However, these consume exhaustible resources, and the materials can end up in the environment if handled improperly. …
Conductive Textiles
Development of Electrically Conductive Polyester Yarn by Surface Modification for Smart and Technical Textiles Until textiles take their place in our lives, it involves many complex and long processes such as fiber and fabric production, finishing processes, sales and marketing (Figure 1). Textile structures, which were first developed to meet the dressing needs of people, …
The Age of Atomically Precise Manufacturing
Talking Nanotechnology with David Forrest David Forrest was one of – if not the very first – to draw attention to the potential for nanotechnology in textiles in a presentation at the Advanced Textiles Association/ATA EXPO (formerly IFAI) in 1995. An MIT graduate, his achievements include an Energy Rock Star Award when working at the …
Eco-Dyes are on the Rise
Coloration Leaders Committed to Sustainable Change Many new companies are suddenly gaining traction in the development of sustainable new dyes and finishing treatments, as outlined by Geoff Fisher in his article here of this issue of International Fiber Journal. However, two of the leading conventional textile coloration and specialty chemicals businesses – Archroma and DyStar …
Natural Cures to Coloration Ails
Bio-based Dyes Fueling Vibrant Change to Produce Natural Colors Following the shift from plant and animal-derived dyes to synthetic ones, there is now a growing appetite for non-toxic, bio-based dyes to both enhance product performance and reduce environmental impact. Much has been written (in this Journal especially) about the dangers of microplastics from textile fibers …