Nano technology
Nano technology (Greek: nános = dwarf) today generally refers to research in the field of cluster physics and surface physics, semiconductor physics, in the field of chemistry and, still within a rather confined scope, in some parts of the engineering business. This collective term derived from popular science is based on the dimension common to all nano research from the single atom to a size of 100 nanometers (nm; one nanometer is a billionth of a meter).
This dimension also denotes a threshold around which the surface qualities play an ever more important role as opposed to the volume qualities and quantum physical effects have to be considered increasingly. Nano technology refers to systematically arranged functional structures consisting of parts with qualities depending on their size. It aims at producing and using equipment, structures and systems which due to their limited size boast new qualities and functions. One field of development of nano technology can be regarded as the continuation and expansion of microtechnology.
Already today, nano materials play an important role. They are mostly being produced chemically or mechanically; some of them are commercially available and are used in regular products available on the market.
Nano technology in the clothing industry
In this field, nano technology is considered the key technology of the future. There is no other buzzword that in the recent past has shaken up the textile industry and has been used in advertising slogans of producers as much as the term ”nano technology”. Thanks to nano particles, the textile surface receives a fine structure which easily repels water and dirt.
Since so far there has been no uniform definition of the term and no clear differentiation from traditional textile finishing, the frequent mentioning of these highly acclaimed principles of action and products has increased the uncertainty among retailers and consumers.
Textile technological parameters which have to be examined in addition to nano equipment are care durability, the harmlessness to health, and the wearing comfort. These parameters are being examined e.g. by Hohenstein Institut
In order for a textile product to be allowed to carry the Hohensteiner quality label it is not sufficient to deposit nano particles within the fibres or to surround them with a nano-scale coating (nano film). In fact, the nano particles or layers have to be arranged systematically in or on the textile product, thus clearly bringing about a new function.
Moreover, the people wearing such clothes are to notice nano technology only in the form of improved functionality of the clothes while the textile qualities must not be materially changed by this technology.
A new era of clothing
Thanks to nano technology, the natural antisticking and cleaning process is transferred onto the textile surface: Moisture and annoying stains are a thing of the past. Ketchup, honey, coffee, red wine and many other substances are repelled by the nano-structured surface – even after several washings.
Fields of use
Clothes which were produced or equipped by means of nano technology are ideally suited for workwear and corporate wear, sports wear, outdoor clothes, travel wear, textiles for medical professions and home textiles.
This dimension also denotes a threshold around which the surface qualities play an ever more important role as opposed to the volume qualities and quantum physical effects have to be considered increasingly. Nano technology refers to systematically arranged functional structures consisting of parts with qualities depending on their size. It aims at producing and using equipment, structures and systems which due to their limited size boast new qualities and functions. One field of development of nano technology can be regarded as the continuation and expansion of microtechnology.
Already today, nano materials play an important role. They are mostly being produced chemically or mechanically; some of them are commercially available and are used in regular products available on the market.
Nano technology in the clothing industry
In this field, nano technology is considered the key technology of the future. There is no other buzzword that in the recent past has shaken up the textile industry and has been used in advertising slogans of producers as much as the term ”nano technology”. Thanks to nano particles, the textile surface receives a fine structure which easily repels water and dirt.
Since so far there has been no uniform definition of the term and no clear differentiation from traditional textile finishing, the frequent mentioning of these highly acclaimed principles of action and products has increased the uncertainty among retailers and consumers.
Textile technological parameters which have to be examined in addition to nano equipment are care durability, the harmlessness to health, and the wearing comfort. These parameters are being examined e.g. by Hohenstein Institut
In order for a textile product to be allowed to carry the Hohensteiner quality label it is not sufficient to deposit nano particles within the fibres or to surround them with a nano-scale coating (nano film). In fact, the nano particles or layers have to be arranged systematically in or on the textile product, thus clearly bringing about a new function.
Moreover, the people wearing such clothes are to notice nano technology only in the form of improved functionality of the clothes while the textile qualities must not be materially changed by this technology.
A new era of clothing
Thanks to nano technology, the natural antisticking and cleaning process is transferred onto the textile surface: Moisture and annoying stains are a thing of the past. Ketchup, honey, coffee, red wine and many other substances are repelled by the nano-structured surface – even after several washings.
Fields of use
Clothes which were produced or equipped by means of nano technology are ideally suited for workwear and corporate wear, sports wear, outdoor clothes, travel wear, textiles for medical professions and home textiles.
