Exploring polymeric nanotextile devices: progress and outlook
International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology
ISSN: 0955-6222
Article publication date: 5 August 2024
Issue publication date: 30 September 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Nanotechnology (NT) advancements in personal protective textiles (PPT) or personal protective equipment (PPE) have alleviated spread and transmission of this highly contagious viral disease, and enabled enhancement of PPE, thereby fortifying antiviral behavior.
Design/methodology/approach
Review of a series of state of the art research papers on the subject matter.
Findings
This paper expounds on novel nanotechnological advancements in polymeric textile composites, emerging applications and fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
Research limitations/implications
As a panacea to “public droplet prevention,” textiles have proven to be potentially effective as environmental droplet barriers (EDBs).
Practical implications
PPT in form of healthcare materials including surgical face masks (SFMs), gloves, goggles, respirators, gowns, uniforms, scrub-suits and other apparels play critical role in hindering the spreading of COVID-19 and other “oral-respiratory droplet contamination” both within and outside hospitals.
Social implications
When used as double-layers, textiles display effectiveness as SFMs or surgical-fabrics, which reduces droplet transmission to <10 cm, within circumference of ∼0.3%.
Originality/value
NT advancements in textiles through nanoparticles, and sensor integration within textile materials have enhanced versatile sensory capabilities, robotics, flame retardancy, self-cleaning, electrical conductivity, flexibility and comfort, thereby availing it for health, medical, sporting, advanced engineering, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, military, automobile, food and agricultural applications, and more. Therefore, this paper expounds on recently emerging trends in nanotechnological influence in textiles for engineering and fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The author acknowledges School of Materials, Department of Textile Engineering, The Manchester University, England, United Kingdom, Department of Polymer Engineering, Universiti Teknologi, Malaysia, Department of Polymer and Textile Engineering, Federal University of Technology Owerri and Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria for knowledge.
Citation
Idumah, C.I., Odera, R.S. and Ezeani, E.O. (2024), "Exploring polymeric nanotextile devices: progress and outlook", International Journal of Clothing Science and Technology, Vol. 36 No. 6, pp. 961-1003. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCST-06-2023-0087
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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