In the last 50 years, technology has penetrated much deeper into all possible realms of human life. We have technology surrounding us from our little light switch to Alexa playing songs for us. If such is the level of intermixing, why not revolutionize our textiles as well? However, textiles intermixed with technology is not a new thing in the textiles industry.
This crisp article aims at clearing all the misconceptions and providing a firm ground for a clear understanding of what technical textiles are and how the future can be mastered with new innovations.
A definition in the sea
Technical textiles are textiles which aims at providing a unique value added feature to the fabric to serve specific needs of customers. For ex. Bulletproof jackets, cut resistant gloves, anti-microbial wipes and many more.
Technical Textile and its Rising Potential
The textile industry has been serving the most critical sectors of human life be it healthcare or wars, both with or without the addition of technology. However, the participation of technology has paved the way for the advanced performance of textiles. These textiles are customizable and can focus on a specific demand for human needs. Besides, they increase safety and enhance comfort.
Technical textiles can provide for the specified goals, so in other words what you wear is stronger, more purposeful and has great aesthetics too. That’s a win-win for sure.
The many facets of advanced textiles
What if we tell you that the space suits worn by astronauts and the smart wearables are all founded in the same root of technical textiles?
It’s unbelievable at first but yes, that’s how well diverse and multi-functional technical textiles are. There is a misconception about the very idea of technical wearables over the internet which might give readers a gist of boredom and fog up the concept. However, we’ve got a more diverse definition for this. The soul of the concept lies in the idea of serving a specific purpose to humanity through textiles. The bulletproof jacket is one such example we have heard many times (even in this blog too) but the techniques are not just limited to war jackets. Yes, the beautifully sophisticated and eye-catching dresses worn by many celebrities too are engineered textiles and that is where the proof of its multi-functionality lies.
To give a more elaborative yet superficial idea of how many variants is possible in the industry, here’s a list of fields which incorporate technical textiles: –
- Agrotextiles- plant nets, bird protection nets
- MediTech Textiles- surgical sutures, wipes
- Geotextiles- geogrids, geocells
- ProTech Textiles- industrial gloves, high altitude clothing
- SportsTech Textiles- parachute, sports shoes components, sports clothing
- MobilTech Textiles- seat belts, seat covers
Future, Global Market and Sustainability
Although this industry has been breathing for a long time there is still an ocean of innovation that awaits us in the future.
The industry of advanced textiles is already growing at a rapid pace and is expected to shine as a $ 1.2 trillion economy by 2025. Hence, in this aspect, the market shows an already positive response. This trend entwined with the urgent needs of public welfare may embark on a great rise in future. This urgent need is, of course, sustainability. The technical textiles have one secret sword hidden under its cape, that is how easily it can generate sustainable products. Sustainable, safe and comfortable wearable — what more can one ask for?
We hope we were able to demystify the term “technical textiles” for you! A great day awaits you!
