Textiles

Research

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15 pages, 3541 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modelling of Auxetic Woven Structures for Composite Reinforcement

by Shivangi Shukla, Bijoya Kumar Behera, Rajesh Kumar Mishra, Martin Tichý, Viktor Kolář and Miroslav Müller

Textiles 2022, 2(1), 1-15; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles2010001 - 27 Dec 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2748

Abstract

The current research is focused on the design and development of auxetic woven structures. Finite element analysis based on computational modeling and prediction of axial strain as well as Poisson’s ratio was carried out. Further, an analytical model was used to calculate the [...] Read more.

The current research is focused on the design and development of auxetic woven structures. Finite element analysis based on computational modeling and prediction of axial strain as well as Poisson’s ratio was carried out. Further, an analytical model was used to calculate the same parameters by a foldable zig-zag geometry. In the analytical model, Poisson’s ratio is based on the crimp percentage, bending modulus, yarn spacing, and coefficient of friction. In this yarn, properties and fabric parameters were also considered. Experimental samples were evaluated for the actual performance of the defined auxetic material. Auxetic fabric was developed with foldable strips created in a zig-zag way in the vertical (warp) direction. It is based on the principle that when the fabric is stretched, the unfolding of the folds takes place, leading to an increase in transverse dimensions. Both the analytical and computational models gave close predictions to the experimental results. The fabric with foldable strips created in a zig-zag way in the vertical (warp) direction produced negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR), up to 8.7% of axial strain, and a maximum Poisson’s ratio of −0.41 produced at an axial strain of around 1%. The error percentage in the analytical model was 37.14% for the experimental results. The computational results also predict the Poisson’s ratio with an error percentage of 22.26%. Such predictions are useful for estimating the performance of auxetic woven structures in composite reinforcement. The auxetic structure exhibits remarkable stress-strain behavior in the longitudinal as well as transverse directions. This performance is useful for energy absorption in composite reinforcement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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13 pages, 1783 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Manufacturing and Characterization of Customizable Flexible Carbon Nanotube Fabrics for Smart Wearable Applications

by Ashley Kubley, Megha Chitranshi, Xiaoda Hou and Mark Schulz

Textiles 2021, 1(3), 534-546; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1030028 - 20 Nov 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3780

Abstract

The integration of carbon nanotube fabric into textiles is paving its way into smart materials and wearable applications. Potential novel applications of carbon nanotube hybrid (CNTH) materials and fabric composites span across a range of market levels from high-level PPE appropriate for military [...] Read more.

The integration of carbon nanotube fabric into textiles is paving its way into smart materials and wearable applications. Potential novel applications of carbon nanotube hybrid (CNTH) materials and fabric composites span across a range of market levels from high-level PPE appropriate for military and industrial applications down to consumer products that can be used in everyday scenarios. The high-level performance properties of CNTH materials and their ability to be customized provide new possibilities for constructing fabrics with properties that are made to order. Furthermore, CNTH in combination with advanced textile compositing and construction methods allows the CNTH material to further leverage material customization aspects to meet specific requirements. The unique synthesis process for nanotube fabric allows for modification of the physical properties of the CNTH itself. The CNTH fabric combined with the customizability of standard textile composite materials and with the use of apparel design features allows for the design of materials with new combinations of physical properties. These unique properties offer high potential for developing families of smart wearable garments that can be scaled for industrial production. This article discusses the synthesis of carbon nanotube hybrid fabric, the process of hybrid fabric and textile integration, properties of the hybrid textile, and potential applications. The paper also provides an outlook towards large scale production of the hybrid textile material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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9 pages, 661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Alternative Method to Develop Embroidery Textile Strain Sensors

by Marc Martínez-Estrada, Ignacio Gil and Raúl Fernández-García

Textiles 2021, 1(3), 504-512; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1030026 - 13 Nov 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2788

Abstract

In this paper, a method to develop embroidered textile strain resistive sensors is presented. The method is based on two overlapped zigzag conductive yarn patterns embroidered in an elastic textile. To demonstrate the functionality of the proposed configuration, a textile sensor embroidered with [...] Read more.

In this paper, a method to develop embroidered textile strain resistive sensors is presented. The method is based on two overlapped zigzag conductive yarn patterns embroidered in an elastic textile. To demonstrate the functionality of the proposed configuration, a textile sensor embroidered with a conductor yarn composed of 99% pure silver-plated nylon yarn 140/17 dtex has been experimentally characterised for an elongation range from 0% to 65%. In order to show the sensor applicability, a second test with the sensor embroidered in a knee-pad has been done to evaluate the flexion knee angle from 180° to 300°. The experimental results show the usefulness of the proposed method to develop fabric strain sensors that can help to manufacture commercial applications on the healthcare sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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14 pages, 3801 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of a Screen-Printable Carbon Paste to Achieve Washable Conductive Textiles

by Sheng Yong, Meijing Liu, Abiodun Komolafe, John Tudor and Kai Yang

Textiles 2021, 1(3), 419-432; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1030022 - 05 Oct 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3588

Abstract

Conductive tracks are key constituents of wearable electronics and e-textiles, as they form the interconnective links between wearable electrical devices/systems. They are made by coating or printing conductive patterns or tracks on textiles or by weaving, knitting, or embroidering conductive yarns into textiles. [...] Read more.

Conductive tracks are key constituents of wearable electronics and e-textiles, as they form the interconnective links between wearable electrical devices/systems. They are made by coating or printing conductive patterns or tracks on textiles or by weaving, knitting, or embroidering conductive yarns into textiles. Screen printing is a mature and cost-effective fabrication method that is used in the textile industry. It allows a high degree of geometric freedom for the design of conductive patterns or tracks. Current screen-printed conductive textiles have the limitations of low durability when washed or when placed under bending, and they typically require encapsulation layers to protect the printed conductor. This paper presents a printable paste formulation and fabrication process based on screen printing for achieving a flexible and durable conductive polyester-cotton textile using an inexpensive carbon as the conductor. The process does not require an interface, the smoothing of the textile, or an encapsulation layer to protect the conductor on the textile. A resistivity of 4 × 10⁻² Ω·m was achieved. The textile remains conductive after 20 standard washes, resulting in the conductor’s resistance increasing by 140%. The conductive textile demonstrated less than ±10% resistance variation after bending for 2000 cycles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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14 pages, 6179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Innovative High-Visibility Protective Clothing Development

by Gilda Santos, Rita Marques, Sofia Silva, Juliana Oliveira, Pegui Castro, Carla Pereira and Manuel Pinheiro

Textiles 2021, 1(3), 405-418; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1030021 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3483

Abstract

Technical clothing with light-responsive features for outdoor sports practiced in environments with low visibility is extremely important for athletes’ safety. Lack of signaling by users and visibility for drivers is one of accidents causes, namely run overs, which can leave serious consequences. The [...] Read more.

Technical clothing with light-responsive features for outdoor sports practiced in environments with low visibility is extremely important for athletes’ safety. Lack of signaling by users and visibility for drivers is one of accidents causes, namely run overs, which can leave serious consequences. The products available on the market lack efficiency and their design is not appealing which makes the development of these new materials a compelling need. Therefore, fluorescent and phosphorescent functional finishings with ability to provide illuminant signalization without compromising the design and/or color of clothing as well as comfort and ergonomics, were developed and applied in the textile structure by knife over roll coating technology. The greatest challenge is to integrate the high visibility materials without compromising the design of the garment and accomplish the European Standard of Protective clothing: Enhanced visibility equipment for medium risk situations and test methods and requirements—EN 17353 (that supersedes EN1150:1999 and allows more freedom in the design of the apparel) published in 2020. Phosphorescent materials were evaluated by luminance decay according to DIN 67510, before and after fastness to wash tests. Results obtained regarding high visibility functional finishings and the integration of the materials developed in the final sports collection will be presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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15 pages, 4553 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Potential of Polylactide Nonwovens as Bio-Based Media for Air Filtration

by Christina Schippers, Elena Marx, Ralf Taubner, Jochen S. Gutmann and Larisa Tsarkova

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 268-282; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020014 - 16 Aug 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3094

Abstract

The presented research aims to characterize hydrolytic resistance of highly crystalline and oriented polylactide (PLA) as a prerequisite for exploiting this bio-based material in durable applications. Industrially melt-spun PLA monofilaments and nonwovens have been subjected to environmental aging in a temperature range of [...] Read more.

The presented research aims to characterize hydrolytic resistance of highly crystalline and oriented polylactide (PLA) as a prerequisite for exploiting this bio-based material in durable applications. Industrially melt-spun PLA monofilaments and nonwovens have been subjected to environmental aging in a temperature range of 50–70 °C at a wide range of relative humidity (RH) in order to identify the onset of the material degradation under application conditions. Along with the measurements of mechanical and thermal behavior of the aged samples, the suitability of FTIR spectroscopy to probe the initial changes in the crystalline structure and in chemical composition of the fibers, caused by hydrolytic degradation, has been evaluated. The diagrams of stability and hydrolytic degradation under employed environmental aging for 7–14 days are presented for both types of PLA materials. Assessment of filtration performance of the artificially aged fibrous PLA media indicated a good agreement with the established stability diagram and confirmed the application potential of PLA nonwoven media, spun from currently available PLA grades, in air filtration under moderate climatic conditions up to max 50 °C and 50% RH. The presented results advance the knowledge on hydrolytic resistance of bio-based industry-relevant fibers and therefore open new application areas for sustainable materials with biodegradable components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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10 pages, 1856 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Approach for Prediction of the Kinetic Parameters of Lignocellulosic Fibers

by Heitor Luiz Ornaghi, Jr., Roberta Motta Neves and Francisco M. Monticeli

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 258-267; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020013 - 07 Aug 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2636

Abstract

Lignocellulosic fibers are widely applied as reinforcement in polymer composites due to their properties. The thermal degradation behavior governs the maximum temperature at which the fiber can be applied without significant mass loss. It is possible to determine this temperature using Thermogravimetric Analysis [...] Read more.

Lignocellulosic fibers are widely applied as reinforcement in polymer composites due to their properties. The thermal degradation behavior governs the maximum temperature at which the fiber can be applied without significant mass loss. It is possible to determine this temperature using Thermogravimetric Analysis (TG). In particular, when curves are obtained at different heating rates, kinetic parameters can be determined by using Arrhenius-based equations, and more detailed characteristics of the material are obtained. However, every curve obtained at a distinct heating rate demands material, cost and time. Methods to predict thermogravimetric curves can be very useful in the materials science field, and in this sense, mathematical approaches are powerful tools, if well employed. For this reason, in the present study, thermogravimetric curves from curaua fiber were obtained at four different heating rates (5, 10, 20 and 40 °C·min⁻¹) and Vyazovkin kinetic parameters were obtained using free available software. After, the experimental curves were fitted using an artificial neural network (ANN) approach followed by a Surface Response Methodology (SRM) aiming to obtain curves at any heating rate between the minimum and maximum experimental heating rates. Finally, Vyazovkin kinetic parameters were tested again, with the new predicted curves at the heating rates of 7, 15, 30 and 50 °C·min⁻¹. Similar values of the kinetic parameters were obtained compared to the experimental ones. In conclusion, due to the capability to learn from the own data, ANN combined with SRM seems to be an excellent alternative to predict TG curves that do not test experimentally, opening the range of applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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12 pages, 2457 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrospun Fe₃O₄-PVDF Nanofiber Composite Mats for Cryogenic Magnetic Sensor Applications

by Tonoy Chowdhury, Nandika D’Souza and Diana Berman

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 227-238; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020011 - 27 Jul 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4166

Abstract

Magnetically responsive, mechanically stable and highly flexible iron (III) oxide-polyvinylidene fluoride (Fe₃O₄-PVDF) piezoelectric composite fiber mats were fabricated via one step electrospinning method for magnetic sensing at cryogenic temperature. The properties of Fe₃O₄-PVDF composite fiber [...] Read more.

Magnetically responsive, mechanically stable and highly flexible iron (III) oxide-polyvinylidene fluoride (Fe₃O₄-PVDF) piezoelectric composite fiber mats were fabricated via one step electrospinning method for magnetic sensing at cryogenic temperature. The properties of Fe₃O₄-PVDF composite fiber mats were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, d₃₃ and magnetization test. The fiber diameter decreased as the concentration of Fe₃O₄ increased. The DSC results suggested a decrease in the crystallinity of the composite fiber mats after adding Fe₃O₄, and the XRD curves identified that the decrease in crystallinity took place in the β crystalline phases of the fibers. FT-IR results further confirmed the reduction of β phases of the composite fiber mats which dropped the piezoelectric response of the fiber mats by 38% for 5% Fe₃O₄-PVDF than PVDF fiber but still 400% higher than PVDF pellets. The magnetization test advocated a superparamagnetic state of the fiber at room temperature but a ferromagnetic behavior at a lower temperature. The coercivity values of the mats suggested a homogeneous dispersion of the Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles into the PVDF matrix. Young’s modulus (E) of the fibers remained the same before and after the magnetization test, indicating the mechanical stability of the fiber in the range of 5 K to 300 K. Its mechanical stability, superparamagnetic behavior at room temperature and ferromagnetic at low temperature could open up its application in spintronic devices at cryogenic temperature and cryogenic power electronic devices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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15 pages, 2505 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Piezoresistive Sensor Yarn to Monitor Local Fabric Elongation

by Benjamin Barthod-Malat, Cédric Cochrane and François Boussu

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 170-184; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020008 - 02 Jul 2021

Viewed by 3018

Abstract

The performance of bulletproof vests is mainly based on the energy absorption capacity of the flexible fibrous reinforcements. To understand the in situ behaviour of these textile structures during a ballistic impact, we find the use of sensor yarns integrated into these fibrous [...] Read more.

The performance of bulletproof vests is mainly based on the energy absorption capacity of the flexible fibrous reinforcements. To understand the in situ behaviour of these textile structures during a ballistic impact, we find the use of sensor yarns integrated into these fibrous reinforcements to be a non-invasive and reliable solution. Measurements of the dynamic deformation of the sensor yarns will provide a new and useful source of information. The design and manufacturing stages of a sensor yarn, made with the same structural yarns of the fabric, are detailed successively. Then, different batches of sensor yarns were designed, and electromechanical tensile tests were performed in quasi-static mode. These experiments provide encouraging results for the measurement of the deformation of a textile structure subject to a dynamic impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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17 pages, 7458 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modelling the Woven Structures with Inserted Conductive Yarns Coated with Magnetron Plasma and Testing Their Shielding Effectiveness

by Ion Razvan Radulescu, Lilioara Surdu, Razvan Scarlat, Catalin Constantin, Bogdana Mitu, Cristian Morari and Marian Costea

Textiles 2021, 1(1), 4-20; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1010002 - 24 Mar 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2458

Abstract

The paper proposes the analytic modelling of flexible textile shields made of fabrics with inserted conductive yarns and metallic plasma coating in order to calculate their electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE). This manufacturing process is highly innovative, since copper plasma coating improves EMSE on [...] Read more.

The paper proposes the analytic modelling of flexible textile shields made of fabrics with inserted conductive yarns and metallic plasma coating in order to calculate their electromagnetic shielding effectiveness (EMSE). This manufacturing process is highly innovative, since copper plasma coating improves EMSE on the fabrics with inserted conductive yarns of stainless steel and silver with 10–15 dB in the frequency range of 0.1–1000 MHz, as shown by the measured EMSE values determined according to the standard ASTM ES-07 via the Transverse Electromagnetic (TEM) cell. On the other hand, modelling of EMSE for such conductive flexible shields gives an insight on estimating EMSE in the design phase of manufacturing the shield, based on its geometric and electrical parameters. An analytic model was proposed based on the sum of EMSE of the fabric with inserted conductive yarns and EMSE of the copper coating. The measurement results show close values to the proposed analytic model, especially in case of fabric with conductive yarns having stainless steel content. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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Review

Jump to: Research

33 pages, 6947 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of Recent Developments in Composites Made of Recycled Carbon Fiber Textiles

by Philip R. Barnett and Hicham K. Ghossein

Textiles 2021, 1(3), 433-465; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1030023 - 09 Oct 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7156

Abstract

Carbon fiber recycling has garnered significant attention in recent years due to the large volume of manufacturing waste and upcoming end-of-life products that will enter the waste stream as the current generation of aircraft is retired from service. Recycled carbon fibers have been [...] Read more.

Carbon fiber recycling has garnered significant attention in recent years due to the large volume of manufacturing waste and upcoming end-of-life products that will enter the waste stream as the current generation of aircraft is retired from service. Recycled carbon fibers have been shown to retain most of their virgin mechanical properties, but their length is generally reduced such that continuous fiber laminates cannot be remade. As such, these fibers are typically used in low-performance applications including injection molding, extrusion/compression molding, and 3D printing that further degrade the fiber length and resulting composite properties. However, recent advances in the processing of long discontinuous fiber textiles have led to medium- to high-performance composites using recycled carbon fibers. This review paper describes the recent advances in recycled carbon fiber textile processing that have made these improvements possible. The techniques used to manufacture high-value polymer composites reinforced with discontinuous recycled carbon fiber are described. The resulting mechanical and multifunctional properties are also discussed to illustrate the advantages of these new textile-based recycled fiber composites over the prior art. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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24 pages, 7281 KiB

Open AccessReview

An Overview on Methods for Producing Side-Emitting Polymer Optical Fibers

by Jan Kallweit, Mark Pätzel, Franz Pursche, Junes Jabban, Mohamad Morobeid and Thomas Gries

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 337-360; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020017 - 07 Sep 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8896

Abstract

An overview of the most important methods for producing side-emitting polymer optical fibers is given. Based on a systematic literature and patent search, the methods that are applied in practice and explored in research are identified. The fabrication methods are classified into four [...] Read more.

An overview of the most important methods for producing side-emitting polymer optical fibers is given. Based on a systematic literature and patent search, the methods that are applied in practice and explored in research are identified. The fabrication methods are classified into four groups according to the physical phenomenon that hinders total internal reflection: bulk scattering, bending, surface perforations and luminescence. Subdivisions are made regarding the actual processing steps. The production methods are described in detail and discussed with respect to their customizability and applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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19 pages, 3712 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Electrically Conductive Textile Materials—Application in Flexible Sensors and Antennas

by Mourad Krifa

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 239-257; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020012 - 30 Jul 2021

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 6583

Abstract

This paper reviews some prominent applications and approaches to developing smart fabrics for wearable technology. The importance of flexible and electrically conductive textiles in the emerging body-centric sensing and wireless communication systems is highlighted. Examples of applications are discussed with a focus on [...] Read more.

This paper reviews some prominent applications and approaches to developing smart fabrics for wearable technology. The importance of flexible and electrically conductive textiles in the emerging body-centric sensing and wireless communication systems is highlighted. Examples of applications are discussed with a focus on a range of textile-based sensors and antennas. Developments in alternative materials and structures for producing flexible and conductive textiles are reviewed, including inherently conductive polymers, carbon-based materials, and nano-enhanced composite fibers and fibrous structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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21 pages, 6599 KiB

Open AccessReview

Overview of Nano-Fiber Mats Fabrication via Electrospinning and Morphology Analysis

by Amirhossein Ahmadian, Abbas Shafiee, Nojan Aliahmad and Mangilal Agarwal

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 206-226; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020010 - 08 Jul 2021

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 6359

Abstract

Electrospun nano-fibers exhibit two significant properties: a high surface-to-volume ratio and a relatively defect-free molecular structure. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratio, electro-spun materials are well suited for activities requiring increased physical contact, such as providing a site for a chemical reaction or [...] Read more.

Electrospun nano-fibers exhibit two significant properties: a high surface-to-volume ratio and a relatively defect-free molecular structure. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratio, electro-spun materials are well suited for activities requiring increased physical contact, such as providing a site for a chemical reaction or filtration of small-sized physical materials. However, electrospinning has many shortcomings, including difficulties in producing inorganic nanofibers and a limited number or variety of polymers used in the process. The fabrication of nanofiber bundles via electrospinning is explored in this analytical study and the relationship between all effective electrospinning parameters and the relative abundance of various fiber morphologies. Numerous variables could impact the fabrication of nanofibers, resulting in a variety of morphologies such as uniform, entangled, individual beads, beads-on-string, etc. Therefore, adequate ambient conditions and selecting the appropriate polymer and solvent for achieving a homogenous polymer solution and uniform with desired nanofiber properties for different applications of electro-spun materials are examined. Finally, the promising applications of nano-fine fibers in various fields achieved via electrospinning are studied in this paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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21 pages, 7122 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Innovation in 3D Braiding Technology and Its Applications

by Caroline Emonts, Niels Grigat, Felix Merkord, Ben Vollbrecht, Akram Idrissi, Johannes Sackmann and Thomas Gries

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 185-205; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020009 - 07 Jul 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 13383

Abstract

Braids are generally divided into 2D braids and 3D braids. Two-dimensional braids include flat braids and circular braids. Circular braids represent three-dimensional textiles, as they enclose a volume, but consist of a two-dimensional yarn architecture. Three-dimensional braids are defined by a three-dimensional yarn [...] Read more.

Braids are generally divided into 2D braids and 3D braids. Two-dimensional braids include flat braids and circular braids. Circular braids represent three-dimensional textiles, as they enclose a volume, but consist of a two-dimensional yarn architecture. Three-dimensional braids are defined by a three-dimensional yarn architecture. Historically, 3D braids were produced on row and column braiding machines with Cartesian or radial machine beds, by bobbin movements around inlay yarns. Three-dimensional rotary braiding machines allow a more flexible braiding process, as the bobbins are moved via individually controlled horn gears and switches. Both braiding machines at the Institut für Textiltechnik (ITA) of RWTH Aachen University, Germany, are based on the principal of 3D rotary machines. The fully digitized 3D braiding machine with an Industry 4.0 standard enables the near-net-shape production of three-dimensionally braided textile preforms for lightweight applications. The preforms can be specifically reinforced in all three spatial directions according to the application. Complex 3D structures can be produced in just one process step due to the high degree of design freedom. The 3D hexagonal braiding technology is used in the field of medical textiles. The special shape of the horn gears and their hexagonal arrangement provides the densest packing of the bobbins on the machine bed. In addition, the lace braiding mechanism allows two bobbins to occupy the position between two horn gears, maximizing the number of bobbins. One of the main applications is the near-net-shape production of tubular structures, such as complex stent structures. Three-dimensional braiding offers many advantages compared to 2D braiding, e.g., production of complex three-dimensional geometries in one process step, connection of braided layers, production of cross-section changes and ramifications, and local reinforcement of technical textiles without additional process steps. In the following review, the latest developments in 3D braiding, the machine development of 3D braiding machines, as well as software and simulation developments are presented. In addition, various applications in the fields of lightweight construction and medical textiles are introduced. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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18 pages, 1537 KiB

Open AccessReview

Electrospun Polysaccharidic Textiles for Biomedical Applications

by Daria Poshina and Issei Otsuka

Textiles 2021, 1(2), 152-169; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1020007 - 30 Jun 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3185

Abstract

Recent developments in electrospinning technology have enabled the commercial-scale production of nonwoven fabrics from synthetic and natural polymers. Since the early 2000s, polysaccharides and their derivatives have been recognized as promising raw materials for electrospinning, and their electrospun textiles have attracted increasing attention [...] Read more.

Recent developments in electrospinning technology have enabled the commercial-scale production of nonwoven fabrics from synthetic and natural polymers. Since the early 2000s, polysaccharides and their derivatives have been recognized as promising raw materials for electrospinning, and their electrospun textiles have attracted increasing attention for their diverse potential applications. In particular, their biomedical applications have been spotlighted thanks to their “green” aspects, e.g., abundance in nature, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. This review focuses on three main research topics in the biomedical applications of electrospun polysaccharidic textiles: (i) delivery of therapeutic molecules, (ii) tissue engineering, and (iii) wound healing, and discusses recent progress and prospects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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66 pages, 16157 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of the Mechanical and Physical Properties of Polyethylene Fibers

by Coline Roiron, Eric Lainé, Jean-Claude Grandidier, Nicolas Garois and Cathie Vix-Guterl

Textiles 2021, 1(1), 86-151; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1010006 - 04 Jun 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5410

Abstract

Since the 1970s and 1980s, a major effort has been made to study UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene) fibers with remarkable mechanical properties, based on a basic polymer such as PE (PolyEthylene). These performances are above all associated with a very strong alignment [...] Read more.

Since the 1970s and 1980s, a major effort has been made to study UHMWPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight PolyEthylene) fibers with remarkable mechanical properties, based on a basic polymer such as PE (PolyEthylene). These performances are above all associated with a very strong alignment of the molecules and the microfibrillar structures formed using various processes. However, they vary greatly depending on many parameters, and particularly on the draw ratio. Thus, these characteristics have been extensively analyzed by dynamic, static tensile, and creep tests, and are predominantly viscoelastic. The behavior appears to be associated with physical considerations and with the characteristic orthorhombic-hexagonal solid phase transition. The presence of a hexagonal phase is detrimental to the behavior because the chains slide easily relative to each other. Shifting this transition to higher temperatures is a challenge and many factors influence it and the temperature at which it takes place, such as the application of stress or annealing. The objective here is to give an overview of what has been done so far to understand the behavior of UHMWPE yarns. This is important given future numerical modeling work on the dimensioning of structural parts in which these UHMWPE yarns will be reinforcements within composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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31 pages, 11656 KiB

Open AccessReview

Factors Affecting Acoustic Properties of Natural-Fiber-Based Materials and Composites: A Review

by Tufail Hassan, Hafsa Jamshaid, Rajesh Mishra, Muhammad Qamar Khan, Michal Petru, Martin Tichy and Miroslav Muller

Textiles 2021, 1(1), 55-85; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1010005 - 31 May 2021

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5738

Abstract

Recently, very rapid growth has been observed in the innovations and use of natural-fiber-based materials and composites for acoustic applications due to their environmentally friendly nature, low cost, and good acoustic absorption capability. However, there are still challenges for researchers to improve the [...] Read more.

Recently, very rapid growth has been observed in the innovations and use of natural-fiber-based materials and composites for acoustic applications due to their environmentally friendly nature, low cost, and good acoustic absorption capability. However, there are still challenges for researchers to improve the mechanical and acoustic properties of natural fiber composites. In contrast, synthetic fiber-based composites have good mechanical properties and can be used in a wide range of structural and automotive applications. This review aims to provide a short overview of the different factors that affect the acoustic properties of natural-fiber-based materials and composites. The various factors that influence acoustic performance are fiber type, fineness, length, orientation, density, volume fraction in the composite, thickness, level of compression, and design. The details of various factors affecting the acoustic behavior of the fiber-based composites are described. Natural-fiber-based composites exhibit relatively good sound absorption capability due to their porous structure. Surface modification by alkali treatment can enhance the sound absorption performance. These materials can be used in buildings and interiors for efficient sound insulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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18 pages, 28343 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Washability of E-Textiles: Failure Modes and Influences on Washing Reliability

by Sigrid Rotzler and Martin Schneider-Ramelow

Textiles 2021, 1(1), 37-54; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles1010004 - 21 May 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4469

Abstract

E-textiles, hybrid products that incorporate electronic functionality into textiles, often need to withstand washing procedures to ensure textile typical usability. Yet, the washability—which is essential for many e-textile applications like medical or sports due to hygiene requirements—is often still insufficient. The influence factors [...] Read more.

E-textiles, hybrid products that incorporate electronic functionality into textiles, often need to withstand washing procedures to ensure textile typical usability. Yet, the washability—which is essential for many e-textile applications like medical or sports due to hygiene requirements—is often still insufficient. The influence factors for washing damage in textile integrated electronics as well as common weak points are not extensively researched, which makes a targeted approach to improve washability in e-textiles difficult. As a step towards reliably washable e-textiles, this review bundles existing information and findings on the topic: a summary of common failure modes in e-textiles brought about by washing as well as influencing parameters that affect the washability of e-textiles. The findings of this paper can be utilized in the development of e-textile systems with an improved washability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fibrous Materials (Textiles) for Functional Applications)

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