Textiles

Lubricants based on fatty acid ester (FAE) mixtures are widely used in the textile industry, e.g., in spin finishes applied during the production of synthetic fibres, or in sizes added to fibres before weaving. FAE lubricants can significantly impact the dyeing quality of a textile due to their hydrophobicity and must therefore be removed before dyeing. However, the solvents currently used for their removal pose an environmental risk, and biobased solutions are thus sought. A lipase-assisted pre-dyeing treatment for synthetic fibre textiles was developed in this study. Six lipases were tested for their ability to hydrolyse FAEs from a polyamide-with-elastane textile, and all were found to be active. The conditions for the washing of lipase-treated textiles were found to be crucial for the performance of the process. Among the possible lipid hydrolysis products of tripalmitin (selected as a model FAE), only palmitic acid removal improved during washing, in comparison with the original FAE. This improvement only occurred with washing solutions containing a monovalent base. A combination of lipase treatment and washing with a non-ionic surfactant and monovalent base was found to be effective in the removal of FAEs, with a performance similar to a current solvent-based pre-treatment process. Full article

Hyperspectral imaging was used for qualitative and quantitative monitoring of the distribution of a flame retardant on polyester fabrics. NIR reflection spectra show a specific band related to the flame retardant, which rises with increasing application weight. Multivariate data analysis tools based on the partial least squares (PLS) algorithm were applied for quantification of the spectra. Gravimetry was used as a reference method for the characterization of the calibration samples. The calibration method was optimized by the application of several spectral pretreatments and variation in the spectral range considered in the various models, which finally resulted in a prediction error of about 1.3 g/m². The prediction performance of the developed calibration model was proven in external validations using independent samples with application weights between about 5 and 25 g/m². Apart from the quantification, the homogeneity of the distribution of the flame retardant was investigated. It was shown that non-uniform distributions (e.g., gradients, droplets, irregular) can be detected by hyperspectral imaging. Some fabric samples were finished using a special ink jet printing technology for application to the polyester fabric. The spectral images of printed samples based on the previous calibration model achieved for samples made by impregnation do not only clearly show the different degrees of functionalization, but also the outstanding homogeneity of the distribution of the flame retardant. Moreover, printed samples finished with two different agents were analyzed. Full article

Adhesion between fused deposition modelling (FDM) printed polymers and textile substrates is critical for durable printed-on-textile hybrids. Since no dedicated test standard exists for additively manufactured textile interfaces, many studies use T-peel methods adapted from adhesive-bond standards. However, printed-on-textile joints are often governed by polymer penetration into the fabric and mechanical interlocking, rather than by a discrete adhesive layer. This work evaluates a fixture-based perpendicular (normal-separation) tensile method, using a circular dolly printed directly onto a cotton plain-weave substrate and a fully 3D-printable, threaded, self-aligning clamping assembly. Three representative filaments, namely polyethylene terephthalate glycol-modified (PETG), polylactic acid (PLA), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), were tested using both the proposed pull-off method and an ISO 11339-type T-peel benchmark, with n = 8 specimens per polymer. The perpendicular method produced complete datasets for all polymers and clearly differentiated adhesion performance (TPU > PLA > PETG). In contrast, for T-peel, the standard evaluation window (25–125 mm) was completed for all PETG specimens but only for a subset of PLA specimens and a single TPU specimen. In the remaining tests, premature substrate failure prevented completion of this window, so the results could not be evaluated. Microscopy confirmed distinct interlocking morphologies across polymers, supporting the observed differences in failure behavior between peel and normal separation. Overall, the results indicate that perpendicular dolly pull-off testing is a practical and reproducible alternative for quantifying adhesion across a wider range of printed-on-textile bonding conditions. Full article

This review examines how plant polyphenols enable multifunctional textiles, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes and nanomaterial-based treatments. A literature search (2001–2025) identified 105 peer-reviewed studies across eight functional areas. Abundant in agricultural and industrial byproducts, plant polyphenols act as natural colorants, bio-adhesives, and performance enhancers—providing coloration, antibacterial activity, UV protection, flame retardancy, deodorization, antioxidant capacity, superhydrophobicity, and more. Their catechol and pyrogallol groups bind strongly to natural and synthetic fibers via hydrogen bonding, π–π stacking, and metal chelation, ensuring durable, nontoxic functionality. We analyze structure–function links and scalable methods, including pad-dry-cure and metal–phenolic network (MPN) assembly, which were validated against ISO, ASTM, and AATCC standards. Polyphenol-based textiles match or exceed conventional ones in key metrics, with added benefits: full biodegradability, low ecotoxicity, and skin compatibility. Key advances include enzymatic polymerization for wash-stable color, MPN tuning for customizable functions, and using waste-derived polyphenols. However, major challenges remain: narrow color range (mostly yellow, brown, black) and poor wash/UV resistance, leading to rapid fading and loss of antibacterial/UV protection after laundering. Solving these is a top priority for future work. Overall, this review delivers a practical, science-based roadmap for high-performance, sustainable textiles that align with the Sustainable Development Goals and meet real-world needs in healthcare, sportswear, and smart wearables. Full article

Current approaches in neuro-technologies aim to design artificial devices capable of collecting information on in vitro and in vivo brain activities. In this view, a major challenge for new processing technologies is to integrate the peculiar properties of biomaterials and electrical circuits into engineered devices. Herein, the optimization of electroconductive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fibers loaded with polyanilines (PANIs) and produced via electrospinning is proposed. Two different polyaniline forms were selected, i.e., doped emeraldine base (dPANI-EB) and doped PANI nanofibers (dPANI-NFs) synthesized by a rapid mixing process. SEM morphological investigation indicated that conductive phases do not remarkably affect fiber morphology, slightly increasing the average diameter. Conversely, PANI fibers remarkably affect the PVA surface’s hydrophilicity, as confirmed by the increase in contact angle. The presence of conductive phases enhances the intrinsic ionic conductivity of PVA fibers, through protonic currents, which also increases the electronic conductivity from 10⁻¹⁰ to 10⁻⁷ S/cm. Preliminary in vitro studies performed on a human neuroblastoma cell line (SH-SY5Y) confirmed the biocompatibility of PVA/PANI nanofibers. These data demonstrate the potential of such nanofibers to be used as biotextiles, and specifically as electroactive interfaces capable of monitoring changes in the levels of biochemical signals (i.e., neurotransmitters) related to the brain’s microenvironment. Full article

The study presents an exploratory design-space mapping approach for analysing knitted fabrics through the combined consideration of structural, comfort-related, and optical parameters. The methodology addresses the multi-parameter nature of knitted macrostructures, where functional behaviour emerges from the interaction of yarn composition, stitch architecture, and structural configuration rather than from isolated descriptors. Twelve knitted samples differing in stitch type and yarn linear density, and incorporating photoluminescent and reflective yarns, were analysed. Fabric thickness and air permeability were selected as representative structural and comfort-related parameters, while optical response was characterised using a dimensionless reflectance ratio under multiple illumination conditions. All parameters were normalised to enable comparative representation within a unified design space. The resulting maps reveal visual clusters, structurally isolated cases, and illumination-dependent optical equivalence between structurally different configurations. The findings demonstrate that similar optical performance can be achieved through alternative structural solutions, depending on the illumination context. The proposed approach provides a qualitative, design-oriented framework that supports engineering decision-making without implying optimisation or ranking, while revealing alternative design pathways and context-dependent equivalence. Full article

The textile and clothing industry exerts a significant environmental impact in the EU, contributing heavily to water, land, and resource depletion, with waste generation expected to rise sharply due to fast fashion trends. Accelerating circularity and closed-loop production is critical to reduce the sector’s ecological footprint. This study investigates newer approaches for the removal of indigo prints from cotton (CO) and polyester (PES) textiles using aqueous-based solutions and/or ozone treatment. Aqueous alkaline solutions containing reducing agents and surfactants were evaluated, as well as dry and wet ozone treatments. The efficacy of colour removal was assessed via spectrophotometric analysis [colour strength (K/S) and colour difference (ΔE)] and the fabrics were tested for dimensional stability and tensile strength before and after treatment. Results reveal that surfactant-assisted aqueous treatments enable effective pigment removal and maintain textile properties, supporting subsequent reprinting for textile upcycling. Wet ozone treatment also promoted substantial decolourisation, particularly in cellulosic substrates. Although PES samples exhibited better mechanical resistance, they revealed limited pigment extraction upon ozone treatment. These findings demonstrate the potential of chemical treatments using aqueous-based solutions and surfactants for circular textile applications, facilitating pigment removal without compromising substrate integrity, and boosting the upcycling. Full article

Lignin is an abundant aromatic biopolymer, but its conversion into high-performance fibers remains challenging due to intrinsically poor spinnability, structural heterogeneity, and inefficient stress transfer in lignin-rich systems. In this study, a processing and structure strategy is demonstrated to overcome these limitations by transforming industrial black-liquor kraft lignin into a spinnable and load-bearing fiber component. Kraft lignin recovered from black-liquor waste was extracted and subsequently purified using a hot-water treatment to remove inorganic impurities and thermally unstable fractions, increasing lignin purity to 95.9% through extensive deionized water purification using a water-to-lignin ratio of 300:1. The purified lignin was then blended with poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), wet-spun into continuous filaments, and subjected to post-spinning hot drawing to induce molecular orientation. This sequential extraction, purification, blending, spinning, and drawing approach enables stable wet spinning and the continuous formation of lignin-rich lignin/PVA filaments without filament breakage, directly addressing the primary processing bottleneck of lignin-based fibers. Molecular-level miscibility between lignin and PVA is confirmed by the presence of a single glass transition temperature at 88.3 °C, indicating the formation of a homogeneous amorphous phase. SEM observations reveal composition-dependent surface roughness and non-circular cross-sectional morphologies arising from differential coagulation and shrinkage, demonstrating that lignin actively participates in the load-bearing fiber network rather than acting as a passive filler. As a result of purification-enabled spinnability, true blend miscibility, and post-spinning hot drawing, fibers with a lignin-to-PVA composition of 40:60 achieve a maximum tensile strength of 2.8 GPa, approaching the performance range of commercial high-strength polymer fibers. This work establishes a clear relationship between material structure, processing strategy, and resulting properties, highlighting the potential of industrial lignin waste as a sustainable precursor for advanced fiber applications. Full article

This study presents a highly efficient and sustainable biocatalytic platform for bisphenol A (BPA) bioremediation through the covalent immobilization of laccase onto hierarchically functionalized cotton fibers. The immobilization strategy involved selective periodate oxidation of cellulose, grafting a hexamethylenediamine (HMDA) spacer arm, and glutaraldehyde activation, ensuring stable covalent attachment. Characterization via FTIR, SEM, and BET confirmed successful surface modification and high enzyme loading, achieving an immobilization yield of 90.5%. The immobilized laccase (CT-DA-HMD-Lac) exhibited significantly enhanced performance compared to the free enzyme, with a two-fold increase in maximum reaction velocity (V_max) and a 75% improvement in catalytic efficiency of action (V_max/K_m). Furthermore, the biocatalyst demonstrated superior robustness, maintaining high activity across broader pH and temperature ranges, and retaining 75% of its initial activity after 15 consecutive reusability cycles. Storage stability was also markedly improved, with 83% activity retention after 60 days. Practical application in BPA degradation showed 85% removal efficiency within 300 min, a 2.4-fold increase in the degradation rate constant over the free enzyme. These results highlight functionalized cotton as a promising, cost-effective, and scalable support for advanced enzymatic wastewater treatment and the remediation of persistent endocrine-disrupting chemicals. Full article

The effects of fabric type and of the duration of application on fabric water retention, water transfer to skin, and skin hydration do not appear to have been systematically examined despite frequent use of skin hydration as an indicator of skin health and wet fabrics being applied to the skin to increase skin hydration, enhance penetration of treatment, and/or facilitate cooling. In this work, three fiber types (nylon, wool/polyester, and wool), three fabric structures (single jersey, rib 1 × 1, and interlock 1 × 1), and five water levels (30%, 60%, 120%, 180%, and 240%—percent of dry fabric weight) were examined to determine which variables affect water transfer from wet fabrics to Vitro-Skin^® (‘skin’). Water transfer was determined by measuring ‘skin’ hydration after exposing ‘skin’ to wet fabric (for 5, 10, and 20 min) when ‘covered’ (i.e., under an occlusive layer) and when ‘not covered’. ‘Skin’ hydration was greater with an occlusive layer and increased as the fabric water content increased. While ‘skin’ hydration increased with longer exposure, hydration decreased when ‘skin’ was under the wet nylon fabric for 20 min without a cover. The highest ‘skin’ hydration was recorded for wool rib and interlock fabrics with a water content of 240% used in combination with an occlusive layer. Where a cover was not used, the effects of fabric variables on ‘skin’ hydration were more pronounced. Full article

Yarn tenacity is one of the vital quality parameters that determine the performance, fabric durability and end use suitability. The tenacity of yarn is largely influenced by the fibre characteristics used. The physical properties of jute fibres, including root content, defect, bundle strength, and fineness, exert a significant influence on yarn tenacity. This study utilized metaheuristic optimized random forest regression (RFR) to predict jute yarn tenacity from fibre parameters. The hyperparameters of the RFR models were optimized using four metaheuristic algorithms: whale optimization algorithm (WOA), grey wolf optimization (GWO), beetle antennae search (BAS) and ant colony optimization (ACO). The model utilized a dataset comprising 414 experimental data with 70% data for training and 30% for testing the model, using input variables such as bundle strength (g/tex), defects (%), root content (%) and fineness (tex) to predict yarn tenacity (cN/tex). The developed models effectively predicted yarn tenacity. However, RFR–GWO achieved slightly better performance with R² of 1.0 for training set and 0.96 for test set. Regarding execution time, RFR–GWO is the fastest requiring only 14.25 s. SHAP analysis revealed that bundle strength and root content of jute fibre are the most influential factors, whereas defect and fineness exert the least influence on model’s prediction. The best model RFR–GWO was deployed into an interactive Streamlit web application, offering an intuitive and user-friendly platform for the real-time estimation of yarn tenacity. Full article

This study investigates the influence of conventional textile pretreatment and periodate oxidation parameters on the structural modifications and functional properties of woven cotton fabrics. Unlike most studies focused on cellulose pulps or isolated textile fibers, the present work examines how the initial structural state of the textile substrate, determined by its pretreatment history, governs the oxidation pathways. Cotton fabrics were subjected to alkaline scouring (SC), hydrogen peroxide bleaching (BC), and combined scouring–bleaching (SBC), followed by sodium periodate oxidation under controlled conditions. Carbonyl species were quantified analytically and identified by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, while structural changes were evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD). Mechanical properties were assessed using the normalized parameters (Fa/Fa₀ and E/E₀), hydrophilicity by water absorption capacity (WAC), and optical stability by the yellowness index (YI). The results demonstrated that the pretreatments influence the oxidant accessibility and the balance between carbonyl speciation. XRD analysis shows a moderate decrease in crystallinity, indicating partial preservation of the crystalline domains, whereas mechanical properties decrease significantly (35–65%), concomitant with a 25–45% reduction in WAC. These results suggest that the impairment in mechanical and hydrophilic properties is primarily governed by localized C2–C3 bond scission, secondary oxidative reactions, and supramolecular rearrangements, rather than by bulk crystalline loss. The oxidized SC series exhibits higher YI values associated with an increased free aldehyde content, while the BC and SBC fabrics show improved optical stability. Overall, these results demonstrate that pretreatment history governs periodate oxidation pathways and establishes clear structure–property relationship relevant for the controlled functionalization of woven cotton fabrics. Full article

Traditional ready-to-wear garments can mostly not conform to different body shapes because of the adoption of the generic sizing system, which leads to the local strain of concentration and morphological misfit. Auxetic structures, which have a negative Poisson’s ratio, permit enhanced redistribution of stress and geometry and allow deformation. Two auxetic knitted structures were developed by using 100% polyester and 100% nylon yarns with a fabric density of 41 Wales and 40 courses per inch. Characterization of the initial fabrics involved checking the behavior of negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) where the polyester line (P1) structure shows the highest auxeticity, with a NPR of approximately −0.4 and peak strain reductions of 80–90%, as well as air permeability, moisture management, bend test, compression, roughness, friction properties and stiffness tests to check the mechanical and comfort-related performances. The standardized tunic garment was modeled in CLO 3D on three female body shapes—hourglass, pear and rectangle—with a constant size of 34. The fit map showed a strain of 91.49% in auxetic and 509.75% in single-jersey fabric at the hip area of the pear body shape when measuring fabric and body interaction. The findings indicate lower peak strain levels, which ascertain that increased adaptability is possible and support its use in the development of adaptive ready-to-wear garments. Full article

This study represents the first comprehensive investigation examining how oven temperature and drawing ratios, two key tow stretch-breaking parameters, influence the properties of high-bulk acrylic yarns. Only the tow parameters were altered, while all other production parameters involved in converting from tow to yarn remained constant. Two experimental sets were conducted. In the first, oven temperatures (100 °C, 120 °C, 130 °C, 150 °C, and 170 °C) and the ratios (1.3, 1.47, 1.59, and 1.64) in the drawing zone (E₁) were altered. In the second, oven temperatures (130 °C and 150 °C) and the ratios (1.3, 1.35, 1.49, 1.54, 1.62, 1.66, 1.70, 1.81, and 1.90) in the break-draw zone (E₅) were altered. The samples, produced on industrial-scale machines, were evaluated for shrinkage of fiber slivers in water steam, yarn hairiness, unevenness, tensile strength and strain, and hand-feel rating of yarn balls. The highest shrinkage was obtained at 130 °C and 150 °C with the drawing ratio of 1.47, while the lowest occurred at 130 °C with the drawing ratio of 1.3. The lowest tensile strength and strain were obtained at 150 °C, while the highest values were obtained at 130 °C with 1.59. The yarn hairiness and unevenness were lowest at 130 °C and increased at both lower and higher temperatures. Full article

In this study, we employed forced convective cooling under the fan-cooling garment (FC condition) and conductive cooling under the neck cooling device (NC condition) in a hot environment during intermittent exercise to compare their effects on thermophysiological and subjective responses. Cooling was examined under two conditions: continuous application throughout both exercise and rest periods (Experiment 1) and application solely during rest periods (Experiment 2). As different participant groups were utilized for each experiment, the effects of cooling timing were interpreted in an exploratory manner. No differences were observed between conditions at baseline. In the FC condition, whole-body heat dissipation (HF_mean) significantly increased (p < 0.05), particularly during the recovery phase, and was associated with significant suppression of mean skin temperature rise (p < 0.05) and enhanced thermal comfort. Conversely, although localized heat dissipation at the neck (HF_neck) significantly increased under the NC condition, its effects on whole-body heat dissipation and mean skin temperature were limited. No consistent differences were observed between cooling conditions in axillary temperature or heart rate responses. These results suggest that forced convective cooling, which facilitates ventilation within clothing, and localized conductive cooling exhibit distinct thermal response characteristics. This study provides fundamental comparative data under controlled conditions, contributing to the understanding of the response characteristics of wearable cooling devices. Full article

This study investigated thermal insulation in layered suit systems by systematically varying air-layer thickness and structure (single vs. sandwiched), fabric air permeability, and ambient airflow. A hot plate based apparatus equipped with air-layer spacers and an airflow-generation system was developed, and suit fabrics with different air permeability but similar thickness were fabricated. Heat flux from the heated plate and air-layer temperature were measured in three experimental series. Under no-airflow conditions, insulation was maximized at a 20 mm air layer, whereas a 30 mm air layer increased heat flux, suggesting buoyancy-driven convection. Under airflow conditions, thinner air-layers allowed airflow to influence the hot plate region more directly, while thicker-layers attenuated this effect. The sandwich-structured air layer reduced heat flux compared with a single air layer of the same total thickness, and its effect depended on the thickness distribution between the upper and lower air-layers. Fabric air permeability increased heat flux mainly under airflow, indicating that permeability effects should be evaluated under combined conditions of ambient airflow and controlled air-layer configurations. Full article

The effect of structure on the properties of cotton fibers is yet to be fully understood even after many years of research. This is due to the presence of convolutions that occur at various intervals in cotton fibers. An attempt was made in this investigation to remove these convolutions using liquid ammonia treatment. The optical and X-ray orientation angles of two varieties of G. hirsutum cotton fibers were investigated at various stages of maturity, and results were compared. An American upland variety was also studied. Four-hour treatment of cotton fibers in liquid ammonia at a temperature of −50 °C ensures a complete change of the lattice structure from cellulose I polymorph to cellulose III polymorph. The cellulose I lattice structure is restored by boiling it in distilled water for 24 h. X-ray diffractograms confirm these conversions. Mature fibers after treatments are devoid of convolutions and are rounded in appearance with no central lumen. The scanning electron micrographs revealed these morphological structures. A close correlation exists between the optical and X-ray orientation measurements and are both strongly dependent on fiber maturity. In all the varieties studied, a maturity ratio of at least 0.8 is required for a cotton fiber to be of commercial value, in terms of strength and durability The progressive build-up of both the primary and secondary walls as the fiber matures shows a gradual decrease in helix angles and, hence, an increase in the orientation of the fibrils, conforming to the constant pitch model. The effect of convolutions on both the optical and X-ray orientation angle is found to be higher than 10%. Full article

Compression textiles have been widely applied in medical, sportswear, and daily usage, with single-jersey structures produced by circular knitting dominating the market due to their thinness and light weight. However, the presence of seams may compromise compression performance and wearer comfort. This study investigates the effects of yarn type, number of yarns, and loop length on pressure, stretchability, and thermal comfort of seamless punch-lace knitted fabrics and explores their potential application in compression textiles. The results show that yarn number is the dominant factor influencing fabric stiffness, stretchability, and pressure. Fabrics with increased yarn content demonstrate higher maximum load and compression pressure. Smaller loop lengths and additional reinforcing yarns improve dimensional stability and resistance to extension. Air permeability decreases with increasing yarn number due to increased fabric thickness and reduced porosity, while thermal conductivity increases and is positively associated with ventilation resistance, indicating a trade-off between heat transfer and breathability. Surface friction and roughness are significantly affected by yarn number, yarn type, and loop length, whereas water vapour permeability shows no significant relationship with the investigated variables. Overall, seamless punch-lace knitted fabrics demonstrate strong potential for compression applications, although careful design is required to balance breathability and thermal comfort. Full article

Children’s skin is uniquely vulnerable, requiring specialised design solutions that transcend traditional aesthetics. This exploratory study investigates the importance of paediatric dermatology in informing functional fashion design through expert medical perspectives. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered from a purposive cohort of paediatric dermatologists and immunoallergologists and analysed through inductive thematic analysis. Findings identify four core themes: the physiological immaturity of children’s skin (notably the prevalence of atopic dermatitis), clothing’s role as a symptomatic aggravator rather than a primary aetiology, the clinical risks posed by chemical additives in synthetic textile processes, and the therapeutic potential of natural fibres and biofunctional agents. The data also highlights significant diagnostic constraints in paediatric patch testing, emphasising the necessity of proactive material safety. The findings suggest that integrating healthcare expertise into human-centred design may support the development of safer paediatric clothing solutions, ensuring that fashion industry innovation meets the physiological requirements of children. By transitioning from hazardous synthetic processes to biocompatible textiles, such as undyed natural fibres and medicinal plant-derived dyes, the industry can transform apparel from a potential irritant into a secondary protective barrier. This provides initial insights for developing clothing that safeguards the skin barrier and improves the overall wellbeing of vulnerable populations. Full article