Smart Textiles

Chapter 2Nanofibers for Smart Textiles

Lynn Yuqin Wan

Fiber and Polymer Scientist, Lululemon Athletica Honorary Research Associate, Department of Material Engineering, University of British Columbia Vancouver, BC, Canada

Email: [e-mail]

Abstract

Due to the nano-effect, nanofibers have found numerous applications in many areas such as filtration, energy generation and storage, and biomedical and textile industries. Comparing with conventional textile materials, nanofiber membranes have super high porosity, surface area-to-volume ratio, and sensibility. Therefore, nanofiber membranes have demonstrated excellent protective properties against environmental threats to human beings as a new type of smart textile material. In this chapter, the definition and the advantages of nanofibers are first introduced, followed by comparisons of different fabrication technologies. As the most widely adopted fabrication method, electrospinning technology is emphasized with more detail. The types and properties of smart nanofibers as well as their applications in textiles are then elaborated. As a conclusion, the challenges confronting nano-fibers as a special type of textile material are summarized and the future development trends are suggested.

Keywords: Smart textiles, nanofiber, electrospinning, moisture management, waterproof, thermoregulation, protection, wearables, medical care

2.1 Introduction

Recognizing the potential nano-effect that will be created when fibers are reduced ...