Journal of Textile Science & Engineering

Textile materials have been widely used in various industrial sectors for their versatility and durability. They have been traditionally used for clothing and fashion accessories, but in recent years, there has been a growing interest in utilizing textile materials for composites. A composite material is made up of two or more distinct materials that, when combined, produce a material with unique properties that are superior to the individual components. Textile materials offer several advantages over other materials when used in composites, such as high strength, flexibility, and lightweight. In this article, we will discuss the application of textile materials in composites. Textile materials are classified into two categories: natural and synthetic. Natural textile materials are obtained from animals and plants. Examples of natural textile materials include cotton, silk, wool, and flax. Synthetic textile materials, on the other hand, are made from chemical processes. Examples of synthetic textile materials include polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Both natural and synthetic textile materials can be used in composites, depending on the application.

Functional finishing of textile materials refers to the process of treating fabrics to provide them with additional properties beyond their basic structural and aesthetic characteristics. This can include adding features such as moisture-wicking, antimicrobial, or flame-retardant properties, or improving the fabric’s durability and resistance to wear and tear. Functional finishing can also be used to modify the texture and hand feel of fabrics, making them softer or stiffer as required. In addition to the practical benefits of functional finishing, there are also psychological aspects that come into play. One of the most significant psychological aspects of functional finishing is the impact it can have on a person’s perception of the fabric. For example, adding moisture-wicking properties to a fabric can make it feel cooler and more comfortable to wear, even in hot and humid conditions. This can be particularly important in sports and outdoor activities, where comfort and performance are essential. Similarly, adding antimicrobial properties to a fabric can make it feel cleaner and fresher, reducing the potential for unpleasant odours and bacteria build-up.

In recent years, the demand for antimicrobial fabrics has surged due to growing concerns about the spread of infectious diseases and the need for enhanced hygiene measures. To meet this demand, researchers have developed a novel process for coating textile materials with silver, which has proven to be highly effective in preparing antimicrobial fabrics. Traditionally, silver has been recognized for its potent antimicrobial properties, making it an ideal candidate for textile coatings. However, previous methods of applying silver to fabrics were often cumbersome, limited in effectiveness, or posed environmental concerns. This new process aims to overcome these limitations and provide a reliable and sustainable solution. The first step in this innovative coating process involves the creation of a silver nanoparticle suspension. By reducing the silver particles to nanoscale, their surface area increases significantly, enhancing their antimicrobial effectiveness. Additionally, this nanoparticle suspension can be prepared using eco-friendly and cost-effective methods, minimizing environmental impact.

The investigation of photochromic pigments used for smart textile fabrics has emerged as a fascinating area of research and development in recent years. Photochromic pigments possess the remarkable ability to change color when exposed to specific wavelengths of light, offering unique possibilities for creating dynamic and interactive textile surfaces. In this investigation, researchers aim to explore the characteristics, performance, and applications of photochromic pigments in the context of smart textile fabrics. The first step involves a comprehensive study of different types of photochromic pigments available in the market. These pigments can be organic or inorganic compounds that undergo reversible chemical reactions when exposed to light, resulting in a change in color. By understanding the chemical composition and behaviour of these pigments, researchers can determine their suitability for integration into textile materials. The investigation also focuses on the performance aspects of photochromic pigments in textile applications. Factors such as color change efficiency, response time, and durability are evaluated to ensure that the pigments meet the desired requirements for practical use. Researchers examine the effect of different fabric parameters, such as fiber type, weave structure, and surface treatments, on the photochromic behaviour of the pigments. This analysis helps in optimizing the textile substrate to enhance the performance and stability of the photochromic effect.