Advances in Coated Fabrics and Textiles

1. Introduction

Textile coating technologies have evolved considerably in recent years, extending the range of properties and applications that can be achieved with coated fabrics. Today, these materials are increasingly expected to combine high performance and durability with improved environmental sustainability. Reflecting this transition, De Smet et al. [1] demonstrated the potential of bio-based waterborne polyurethane as an alternative to conventional petroleum-based textile coatings. Extending this approach, De Smet et al. [2] subsequently developed a biodegradable polyurethane textile coating that combined water-barrier and wash-resistant properties with substantial biodegradation in soil. The growing interest in more sustainable coating systems is also reflected in the work of Somogyi Škoc et al. [3], who investigated coatings based on biodegradable natural polymers for cellulose fabrics and nonwovens, highlighting their potential for medical applications.

At the same time, surface functionalization and nanotechnology offer new possibilities for improving the properties of coated textiles. Ielo et al. [4] reviewed nanostructured coatings and surface-finishing strategies for applications including smart textiles, filtration, and industrial systems, while Saleem and Zaidi [5] examined the use of nanomaterials in nanofinishing, nanocoatings, nanofibers, and nanocomposites, also emphasizing their environmental and health implications. These developments are complemented by advances in coating and deposition techniques. Tan et al. [6] reviewed magnetron-sputtered fabric coatings providing functionalities such as electromagnetic shielding, antibacterial activity, wettability control, and structural coloration. Similarly, Ojstršek et al. [7] examined dip-coated electroconductive textiles for flexible e-textiles, with particular attention to their functionality, durability, and sustainability. More specifically, Rubeziene et al. [8] developed PEDOT conductive fabrics for electromagnetic shielding and microwave absorption, demonstrating the importance of fabric structure and coating adhesion for their functional and resistance performance.

In this context, the Special Issue “Advances in Coated Fabrics and Textiles” brings together research on sustainable coating materials, functional textile surfaces, and advanced textile processing. The contributions address a broad range of topics, including coated materials for wastewater treatment, bio-based coatings derived from waste resources, graphene-modified protective fabrics, functional thin films for potential solar applications, coated fabrics for automotive interiors, and nonwoven materials for facemasks, as well as the influence of manufacturing processes on nonwoven structure and performance.

2. Overview of Contributions to This Special Issue

Hami et al. [9] developed zeolite-loaded nanofibre coatings deposited on textile substrates for wastewater treatment. The coated fabric combined the high surface area of nanofibres with the adsorption capability of zeolites to effectively remove Remazol Red dye from aqueous solutions. The study demonstrated the efficiency of zeolites in the fabric substrates to improve filtration and adsorption properties for wastewater treatment, particularly in the textile industries. This approach addresses growing concerns regarding industrial wastewater pollution while extending textile functionality beyond traditional uses. Beyond environmental remediation applications, research also continues to focus on optimizing textile structures and manufacturing processes to improve product performance and functionality. Sasiadek et al. [10] investigated the influence of carding machine design on the porous structure and tensile properties of polyester viscose spunlace nonwoven fabrics. The study examined the relationship between pore characteristics and material strength, demonstrating how variations in carding technology affect the performance of the final product. Based on the obtained results, the authors proposed recommendations for the selection of carding equipment in the mass production of wet wipes, contributing to the optimization of product quality and manufacturing efficiency.

In parallel with process optimization, increasing attention is being devoted to the development of sustainable coating materials derived from renewable and waste resources. The use of wood industry waste as a source of bio-based coatings for textiles was explored by Castro et al. [11]. Their work demonstrated how sawdust from radiata pine wood processing can be transformed into sustainable coating materials. The study emphasized a transdisciplinary approach integrating design, engineering, and sociology, highlighting the importance of collaboration in developing sustainable textile solutions. As a practical outcome, a workwear prototype incorporating the bio-based coatings was developed using a mono-material design concept, supporting circular and resource-efficient product development. While sustainability represents a major research direction, coating technologies are also being explored to enhance the performance of textiles intended for demanding protective applications. Irzmanska et al. [12] investigated graphene-modified polyurethane coatings applied to meta-aramid fabrics intended for personal protective equipment. The incorporation of graphene improved the thermal stability of the coating system, while partially compensating for the reduction in tear resistance caused by the coating process. The developed hybrid textile material met the performance requirements for firefighter protective clothing, demonstrating the potential of graphene-reinforced coatings for advanced protective textile applications. Complementing these performance-oriented approaches, several studies investigated bio-based coating systems designed to combine functionality with environmental responsibility. Nolasco et al. [13] investigated the use of coffee silverskin, a by-product of coffee roasting, as a bio-based coating for cotton, lyocell, wool, and silk fabrics. The developed coating enhanced water repellency and reduced air permeability across all tested substrates, with silk showing the most significant functional improvement. By valorising an agricultural waste stream, the study demonstrates the potential of sustainable bio-based coatings for the development of high-performance technical textiles and more environmentally responsible textile finishing solutions.

Beyond sustainable coatings, advanced surface engineering strategies are expanding the range of functionalities that can be integrated into textile substrates. Sruogaite and Krylova [14] deposited copper sulphide and bismuth sulphide thin films onto different textile substrates using the sustainable and cost-effective SILAR method. The study demonstrated that the structural characteristics of the textile substrates significantly influenced the morphology, crystallinity, elemental composition, and optical properties of the deposited films. These findings highlight the potential of coated textile structures for applications in flexible solar absorbers and thin film solar cell technologies. Coating technologies are also playing an important role in improving the performance of textiles used in large-scale industrial applications. Sahin [15] investigated the influence of coating treatments on knitted polyester fabrics developed for automotive seat cover applications. Different fabric structures and coating formulations were evaluated in terms of mechanical performance and colour fastness properties. The study identified coating and fabric combinations capable of meeting the demanding performance requirements of automotive interiors, providing valuable guidance for the development of high-quality coated textiles for this sector. The application of functional coatings and nanomaterials extends further to healthcare and personal protection products, where both performance and user comfort are essential requirements.

Kamaruzaman et al. [16] developed meltblown polypropylene nonwoven fabrics containing nano-sized titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles for facemask applications. Surface characterization revealed successful nanoparticle incorporation, while comfort evaluations indicated acceptable breathability and wearer comfort. The incorporation of nano-TiO₂ contributes to the development of facemask material with enhanced structural properties and acceptable comfort performance.

3. Closing Remarks

Taken together, the contributions to the “Advances in Coated Fabrics and Textiles” Special Issue illustrate the variety of materials, coating approaches, and processing methods currently being explored in this field. The studies address both functional performance and sustainability, showing how different materials and technologies can be used to improve textile properties for specific applications.