Nanotechnologies and the Textiles Sector
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Nanotechnology can impact the design, materials production, processing and finishing aspects of textiles manufacturing.
Techniques to incorporate nanotechnology in the manufacturing process include the integration of nanomaterials into fabrics (e.g. silver nanoparticle additives on fibres), use of nanosize fibres or use of various nanocoating processes to provide a particular surface resistance. The increased demand for textiles and fabrics that provide comfort with enhanced functionality and improved appearance is driving the demand for nanotechnology in this sector. Nanofiltration technology is also under investigation to recover unused dyes and chemicals from the manufacturing processes.
Surfaces Finishes and Treatments
A number of companies are using nanotechnology (e.g. titanium dioxide or zinc oxide nanoparticle additives in coating formulations) to improve or add special characteristics to product surfaces, which can include stain-resistance, colour durability, self-cleaning, wrinkle resistance, UV-protection, flame retardancy, water-resistance, static resistance and improved thermal performance. Applications range from automotive interiors, clothing and apparel to household and industrial textiles (e.g. floor coverings) and healthcare (medical dressings).
Antimicrobial
The addition of silver nanoparticles to fabric fibres or coatings can provide antimicrobial and reduced odour properties.
Toughness and strength
The use of carbon nano-tubes and various nanofibres and nanoparticles can significantly improve the mechanical properties of the textiles.
Intelligence
Nanotechnology is used in the development of dynamic clothing which can detect and respond to temperature changes. It may even enable intelligent and multifunctional garments that comprise various electronic devices (e.g. displays, sensors and energy-harvesting systems).
Are nano textile products already on the market?
Yes. A significant number of textiles and fabrics now incorporate some form of nanotechnology (nanoparticles, nanofibres or surface/coating treatment), which are used to produce clothing, furniture, carpeting and medical products. The largest markets for such nano treatments are for clothing and apparel, with particular attention focusing on providing garments that eliminate odours, resist dirt and stains (and therefore, require washing less often and at lower temperatures) and require less maintenance (non-iron). A large number of big-brand corporations now promote clothing and apparel with nanotechnology. Examples of commercial nano products and treatments include:
• Wound dressings (Smith & Nephew)
• Surface treatments: Nano-Tex; Schoeller Textiles (NanoSphere), Degussa (Lotus-Effect)
• A wide variety of clothing and apparel (from Levi, Adidas, Nike) and home furnishings are commercially available that now comprise some form of nanotechnology, especially antimicrobial and stain- and wrinkle-resistant clothing.
Managing risks and uncertainties
Existing regulations on the textile industry, such as flame retardancy requirements, will govern the use of nano textile products. There is a degree of self-regulation from some industry quarters and nano appears on labels (although primarily to enable product and brand differentiation). There are some concerns about potential effects of the transfer of engineered nanomaterials from clothing into the human body or the environment. Although there have been no reported health problems, calls for further testing and adequate labelling of consumer products that contain nanotechnologies continue to come from various consumer and public-body groups.
Conclusions
Nanotechnologies are already impacting the textiles industry, with major garment manufacturers adopting the use of nanobased surface treatments. The key to greater uptake will be cost, but in the coming years nanotechnology may pave the way for the commercialisation of smart textiles with adaptive functionalities for military or emergency service uniforms (for example).
Below is a SWOT analysis summarising Government understanding, from discussion with stakeholders, of the major strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats facing the UK in this sector. Please help to steer future actions and shape the UK business environment by answering the questions on the right hand side of the page.
Strengths
The UK is strong in textile design, dyeing and finishing. Europe is world leading in textiles and clothing manufacture.
Weaknesses
For consumer goods there is always the consideration of cost and how much the consumer is willing to pay for better performance, especially in the current economic climate. End-user awareness and confidence in nanotechnologies may prevent wider adoption of nanotextiles, thus requiring the need for better characterisation tools and measurement standards.
Opportunities
Consumer applications (clothing and apparel) offer significant opportunity for nanotechnologies because of the large sales volumes involved. Intense competition and manufacturers’ need for high-performance products, greater product differentiation whilst reducing costs and meeting environmental and safety legislation will drive the need for high-performance material and process technologies. There are also opportunities for the UK to take a lead in transitioning from the use of passive to active nanotechnologies in smart textiles (increased performance and functionality, such as dynamic climate control), adding value and benefits to consumers.
Threats
Strong overseas head start in nanotechnologies surface treatments, especially in USA and Germany. Import competition could become extremely significant, especially from low-wage countries such as China and India. Consumer confidence in “nanosafety” will be important.
What’s your view? Please answer a short survey on nanotechnology in this sector using the form on the right, or leave a public comment using the form below.
