The Textile Science & Research Journal (TSRJ) is a scientific journal that publishes new and important research about textiles, fibers and clothing. It shares discoveries from around the world about how fibers, fabrics, and clothing are made and used. Only high-quality articles with original ideas are accepted for publication. Textiles and fiber-based materials—like woven fabrics, nonwovens, and fiber blends—are essential in today’s world. While they are common in clothing and industry, they are also being used in exciting new ways, such as in smart clothing, medical materials, high-tech filters, personal care products, and even electronics and transportation. JTR is a trusted source for sharing research that introduces new technologies, better materials, and fresh ideas in the world of textiles. The journal publishes articles from top universities and research centers. Topics include how different fibers are made and tested, how fabrics are processed and treated (such as dyeing or finishing), and how textile products are designed, produced, and used. Anyone doing research, whether in a university, lab, government agency, or private company—is welcome to submit their work. Submit your manuscript today through Open Journal Systems (OJS).
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Distribution of compaction pressure in fabric reinforcement stacks during composites manufacturing
The compaction of fabric reinforcements normal to their plane plays a central role in the manufacturing and performance of polymer composite materials (PMCs) made from such reinforcements. To be competitive as high-performance structural materials, PMCs must reach high fibre volume fractions (vf) that can only be achieved through normal compaction of the fabric reinforcements. Theoretical models of the effect of fabric architecture on the distribution of compaction pressure were proposed. However, few experimental results and direct evidence of pressure heterogeneity in compacted stacks of textile reinforcements are available. In this work, distributions of compaction pressures measured at different locations within stacks of woven and non-crimp (NCF) carbon fibre reinforcement fabrics are reported for different fabric structures, surface densities and cover factors. Local pressures were measured using image analysis of patterns imprinted on calibrated pressure measurement films interleaved between fabric plies. Pressure distributions were measured in-situ at 5 locations: A) next to hard tooling surfaces, B) next to soft tooling surfaces, and between fabric plies featuring C) parallel yarns and/or stitch lines, D) perpendicular yarns and/or stitch lines, and E) yarns and/or stitch lines separated by 45°, on their opposing faces. Pressures were measured under 1.0 bar vacuum in stacks of fabric plies only and stacks of fabric plies interleaved uncured epoxy resin film, both cases replicating PMC manufacturing. Pressure heterogeneity was observed in all cases, with clear patterns of high-pressure zones (>0.5 bar) traceable to fabric architecture. High compaction pressures were present over 40% of area on average in stacks of dry reinforcements, consistent at all locations A-E but varying between 30% and 45% for different fabric architectures and relative orientations. In contrast, high compaction pressures were present over 55% of area on average in interleaved stacks, varying between 50% and 60% for different fabric architectures and relative orientations, with more progressive transitions between areas of lower and higher compaction pressure in the latter case. No clear relations were observed between the extent of compaction pressure zones and fibre volume fraction vf , fabric surface density or initial fabric cover factor. Conformability of release film and breather lead to more homogeneous compaction pressure distributions on soft tooling surfaces compared with rigid tooling surfaces but they did not eliminate repeating patterns of compaction pressure. Patterns on one face of a fabric ply were observed to be largely distinct from patterns on the other face.
Copyright (c) 2026 Francois Robitaille, Simon Baril-Gosselin (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Extraction, Digitization, and Textile Application of Kòkòrò (Insects)-Inspired Motifs from Yorùbáland for Surface Pattern Design and Digital Fabric Printing
This study explores the extraction, digitization, and application of Kokoro (Insects)-inspired motifs from Yorubaland for contemporary textile surface design using degital printing techniques. The research adopts a practice-based design methodology integrating photographic documentation, motif abstraction, computer-aided design (CAD), and textile prototyping. Digital printing technologies enable precise color application and motif reproduction, enhancing design accuracy and scalability in textile production. Motifs derived from selected Kokoro (Insects) from were digitized and developed into repeat patterns, which were applied to fabric substrates using digital textile printing. The resulting textile samples were evaluated based on aesthetic quality, motif clarity, and color performance. Findings indicate that indigenous insect forms can be effectively transformed into contemporary textile designs, contributing to innovative surface pattern development. the study demonstrates the potential of integrating indigenous visual resources with modern textile technologies, thereby promoting cultural sustainability and design innovation in textile production.
Copyright (c) 2026 Christianah Yetunde Kolawole, Dr. Olayinka Olumide Bakare, Saminu S. Yakubu (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability: Assessing the Environmental Impacts of Textile and Leather Industries in Ethiopia.
The global textile and leather industries are economically vital yet environmentally damaging due to their resource-intensive operations. In Ethiopia, aggressive industrialization of these sectors risks severe environmental degradation in the absence of a comprehensive sustainability strategy. Existing approaches remain fragmented, failing to address the interconnected impacts across the entire value chain. By synthesizing evidence from peer-reviewed literature, industry reports, and regulatory frameworks, this study provides a comprehensive assessment of the pollution profile, environmental fate of contaminants, and associated public health risks posed by these industries in Ethiopia. Findings reveal that effluents from Ethiopian factories consistently exceed permissible discharge limits, with Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) reaching up to 850.75 mg/L and chromium concentrations as high as 3.54 mg/L. These pollutants devastate aquatic ecosystems, contaminate soils and crops, and pose severe public health risks, including a 67% prevalence of dermatitis among tannery workers. Conventional end-of-pipe management strategies have proven insufficient to address this escalating crisis. In response, this paper proposes a holistic sustainability framework that integrates circular economy principles, cleaner production technologies such as chromium recovery and enzymatic processing, and stringent policy enforcement mechanisms. This integrated strategy aims to align Ethiopia's industrial growth trajectory with long-term environmental stewardship and social equity, offering a replicable model for sustainable industrial development in resource-constrained settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Melse Firew, Tamrate Tesfaye, Adane Haile, Gemeda Gebino, Zerihun Teshome, Eyasu Ferede (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Enhanced Antimicrobial and UV-Protective Healthcare Textile Fabric Incorporating Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Synthesized via Sol-Gel Method: A Review
Healthcare textiles have undergone a revolution thanks to the incorporation of nanotechnology into textile engineering, which has added features like UV protection and antimicrobial activity. Nanoparticles (NPs) can be incorporated into textiles to impart common items with new, useful qualities due to their intriguing surface properties. NPs' surface functionalization can be crucial in regulating their colloidal stability, which is followed by interactions between the NPs and the substrate, resulting in improved functional properties. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles are being used more and more in textile applications because of their superior antibacterial qualities, UV protection, chemical stability, and biocompatibility. The sol-gel production of ZnO nanoparticles, their integration into textile substrates, and the ensuing improvements in UV protection and antibacterial activity are covered in this work. Benefits of the sol-gel synthesis include homogeneity, control over particle size, and environmental friendliness, which make it appropriate for functional finishing of medical textiles.
Copyright (c) 2026 Anteneh Tilahun Awoke (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INTEGRATING RESEARCH FOR DESIGN (RFD) AND DELPHI VALIDATION: A FRAMEWORK FOR PH-RESPONSIVE MATERNITY WEARABLES
Preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) remains a leading cause of neonatal mortality, yet accessible screening tools are scarce in low-resource settings. Existing solutions, such as single-use Nitrazine pads or biomarker kits, often fail to balance affordability, sustainability, and diagnostic accuracy. This study proposes a comprehensive design framework for a reusable, pH-responsive maternity underwear system designed for early PPROM detection. Adopting a Research for Design (RfD) methodology, we synthesized material constraints of sol–gel indicators with clinical requirements to develop an initial prototype concept. Crucially, this concept was refined through two rounds of qualitative expert validation involving obstetricians and midwives. The first round identified key risks in user compliance and interpretation ambiguity, driving the iteration of a dual-criterion decision rule. This rule combines a pH threshold (pH ≥ 7.0) with a time-persistence check to mitigate false positives. The final output is a validated framework that integrates material performance, user interaction logic, and service design principles. This study contributes a practical, expert-verified pathway for developing sustainable, low-cost wearable diagnostics suitable for resource-constrained maternal care.
Copyright (c) 2026 DEHE YAO, RONGHAN WANG (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF PICKS PER INCH ON ELONGATION, TENSILE AND TEARING STRENGTHS OF ASO-OKE PRODUCED ON NEO-TRADITIONAL AND MODIFIED FLOOR LOOMS
Aso-Oke is the most famous indigenous woven fabric in Southwest Nigeria. This study evaluated the effect of picks per inch on elongation, tensile and tearing strengths of Aso-Oke produced on neo-traditional floor loom (TFL) and modified floor loom (MFL). This study adopted an experimental design. Ten samples of 2/2 matt woven fabrics were produced using 91 ends per inch (EPI), varied (2, 3, 5, 7, and 8) numbers of filling yarns (NFY), and 100% textured polyester yarn on TFL (TFL1-TFL5) and MFL (MFL1-MFL5). Fabric tensile, elongation, and tearing strength were tested. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, standard deviation, independent t-test, and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Results showed that Fabric MFL2 had the highest warp way tensile strength (50.04kgf), TFL3 (54.86kgf) in weft, and MFL3 (44.46kgf) showed significantly high breaking elongation in warp and weft ways corresponding to 64 picks per inch. Tearing strength was highest in fabrics TFL5 (46.51kgf) and TFL4 (53.34kgf) in warp and weft ways respectively. MFL3 tearing resistance was higher in both the warp and weft ways. T-test results revealed a significant (p<0.05) difference in Tearing Strength in weft way between MFL (29.34±8.56) and TFL (31.5±18.73; p =0.01) The correlation matrix showed moderately positive relationships (r =0.50), in Tensile 0.791 in weft way and Tearing Strength 0.962 in warp way; The study concluded that the Aso-Oke produced on TFL and MFL have excellent tensile, elongation, and tearing strength influenced by yarn type, density, thickness, and weave structure.
Copyright (c) 2026 ADEBIYI ADEBOYE, ADETOUN ADEDOTUN AMUBODE, PROF. M. A WAHEED, PROF. M.OTURAYO A. ARIYO (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
MODELING THE VISCOELASTIC BEHAVIOR OF SEWN MULTI-LAYER INSULATION FABRICS: A NON-LINEAR RESPONSE AND OPTIMAL NUMBER OF LAYERS
Investigating the time-dependent mechanical behavior of hybrid multi-layer textile structures, designed for high-performance technical applications, is critical for ensuring their dimensional stability. This study comprehensively investigates the influence of the number of layers (2, 6, 12, and 24) on the viscoelastic creep mechanism within the seam zone of these structures. To this end, a dual-analysis methodology was employed, incorporating mathematical modeling using the four-parameter Burgers model and a complementary phenomenological analysis based on creep rate, applied to both seamed and seamless specimens. The results revealed a non-linear relationship between the number of layers and the viscoelastic properties. Mechanical performance peaked in the 12-layers structure, where the instantaneous elastic modulus (E_M) reached a maximum of 460.83 MPa, and the dynamic retardation time (τ) achieved a minimum of 2.29 min. Comparative analysis demonstrated that the seam plays a dual role: acting as a stiffness-weakening factor in thin structures (2 layers), while functioning as a mechanism that significantly retards system dynamics in thick structures (24 layers). The most significant finding was the critical role of the seam in the 12-layers structure; here, the stitched seam transformed an inherently unstable structure into an optimal structure with superior structural cohesion, acting as a stabilizing and reinforcing agent. These findings highlight the necessity of understanding the complex interaction between the seam and the multi-layer assembly for the optimal design of structures requiring high dimensional stability.
Copyright (c) 2026 ZAHRA JAMSHIDI, SAEED AJELI, MEHDI SALMANI-TEHRANI (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
NONWOVEN MEMBRANES FOR SEAWATER DESALINATION: STRUCTURAL DESIGN, FUNCTIONALIZATION STRATEGIES, AND SYSTEM- LEVEL PERFORMANCE
Nonwoven materials, characterized by high porosity, tunable fiber architecture, robust mechanical strength, and versatile surface functionalizability, have emerged as highly promising platforms for next-generation seawater desalination. This review comprehensively examines the structural design strategies and performance-regulation mechanisms of nonwoven membranes across major desalination technologies, including reverse osmosis (RO), forward osmosis (FO), membrane distillation (MD), and solar-driven interfacial evaporation (SIE). Particular emphasis is placed on the synergistic influence of fiber diameter, orientation, porosity, and multilayer composite configurations in determining key performance metrics, including water flux, salt rejection, wetting resistance, antifouling behavior, and long-term operational stability. Furthermore, we summarize recent advances in nonwoven fabrication techniques, including melt blowing, electrospinning, and centrifugal spinning, and discuss their integration with emerging functionalization approaches such as plasma modification, nanoparticle and 2D-material incorporation, polymer blending, and sustainable bio-based materials. By aligning nonwoven material design with the physicochemical requirements of different desalination pathways, this review highlights the technological potential of nonwoven membranes to enable high-efficiency, low-carbon, and environmentally sustainable desalination systems.
Copyright (c) 2026 HANYING ZHOU, JILONG WANG, LIHUA LOU (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and IoT for Enhancing Smart Manufacturing in Ready-Made Garments Industry
The acquired part on how to use AI, Big Data and IoT to make smart manufacturing in the RMG industry in Bangladesh. The study, carried out on October 21, 25, dwells upon an effective change fueled by the technological integration. The production efficiency is improved by 30-40, costs are lowered by 20-30, and sustainability is elevated by the introduction of a system such as the Smart Worker Tracking and Monitoring System (SWTMS) that utilizes the computer vision to improve the safety and productivity by 15-25. Big Data will streamline supply chains and eliminate an overproduction by a quarter and IoT will lower downtimes by a fifth to a half, which corresponds to the 10.87 billion apparel market revenues in the industry in 2025. There are threats such as job displacement involving 20-30% of 4 million labor, data privacy threat, and barriers to infrastructure especially among SMEs with adoption standing at 25% as opposed to 47% in big businesses. The discourse focuses on the need to balance the possible advantages of technologies with ethical aspects including algorithmic biases, and proposals can be made to upskill 1-2 million people, to have partnerships between the state and business, and ethical versions of AI to achieve inclusive development. The conclusion is that given effective policy support, Bangladesh may grow GDP by 45 percent by 2010 to establish Bangladesh among global leaders in smart manufacturing. The method of the study, both mixed-methods using FGDs with 30 stakeholders and surveys with 200 workers provided a solid empirical foundation. Further studies must focus on the issue of regional inequity and long-term effects, and the development of it should be focused on this base to overcome the challenge of navigating the changing technological world.
Copyright (c) 2026 Nasif Chowdhury (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENGINEERING ALL-TEXTILE PIEZORESISTIVE SENSORS BY PROGRAMMING STITCHING GEOMETRY
Textile-based piezoresistive sensors are highly desirable for wearable health monitoring, soft robotics, and human-machine interfaces due to their inherent conformability, breathability, and skin friendliness. However, the complex fabrication processes and limited scalability of current textile sensors hinder their practical use, and customizing such sensors remains challenging owing to their intricate geometry-electromechanical coupling and demanding requirements for manufacturing. Herein, we report a simple sewing-based strategy that uses stitch architecture and sewing geometry as active design parameters to tailor the electromechanical response of textile piezoresistive sensors. Systematic tuning of stitch-related geometric variables reveals the structure-property relationships that govern electrical resistance evolution, enabling programmable sensitivity, dynamic behavior, and operating pressure range through a textile-compatible, scalable fabrication process. Guided by this understanding, we fabricated an optimized stitched sensor with high sensitivity (3.4 % kPa-1), fast response (40ms) and recovery (20ms), low hysteresis (< 3%), and stable cycling performance. The programming stitch strategy offers a low-cost and manufacturing-ready route toward textile sensors with tunable electromechanical characteristics, potentially expanding their use in wearable systems and soft robotic applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 ZEWEN ZHAO, XINRU LI, XUZHONG SU, FENGXIN SUN (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPARTING SUPERHYDROPHOBICITY OF POLYESTER FABRICS WITH CONTROLLED RELEASE USING SIO2 AEROGEL MICROCAPSULE COATING
Developing polyester fabrics that combine fragrance release with durable liquid repellency remains a challenge in smart textiles. In this research, we introduce a novel dual-functional finishing technique that merges SiO2 aerogel microcapsule coating with Triethoxy-1H,1H,2H,2H-tridecafluorooctylsilane (POTS) to produce superhydrophobic aromatic polyester fabrics. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) confirmed uniform adhesion of approximately 10 μm microcapsules, optimally dispersed at 10 wt%. The resultant polyester fabrics achieved water contact angles above 150°, demonstrated strong self-cleaning properties, and resisted wetting by both water-based and oily liquids. As microcapsule content increased, air and moisture permeability decreased due to pore blocking, indicating a balance between protection and breathability. Despite this, the fabrics effectively released fragrance, with 15.8% of essential oil released after 30 h at 80 °C, comparable to isolated SiO2 microcapsules. Additionally, the fabric handle experiment exhibited reduced softness and smoothness but increased stiffness and drape coefficient with higher microcapsule amounts. Moreover, washing durability performance indicated gradual microcapsule loss and decreased hydrophobicity, although partial repellency and fragrance retention persisted after 20 cycles. Consequently, these findings demonstrate a potential finishing process for producing multifunctional polyester fabrics suitable for smart and protective textile applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 MD SHARIFUL ISLAM,, KHURSHID ALAM, MST ATIA RABBI, SHAHARIA AHMED (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Recent developments in textile-based pH sensors for non-invasive medical applications
The pH levels in biofluids, including sweat, wound exudates, tears, and saliva, indicate hydration status, dermatological conditions, and underlying health issues such as kidney disease. The rapid development of wearable technology in health monitoring has led to considerable interest in textile-based wearable sensors, owing to their flexibility, comfort, breathability, biodegradability and diverse fabrication methodologies. Although there are numerous reviews on textile-based wearable sensors, a thorough review specifically addressing wearable textile-based pH sensors is lacking. The objective of this review is to present a comprehensive analysis of the current status of research on textile-based colorimetric pH sensors, highlighting their prospective applications in non-invasive health monitoring. Key textile substrates, pH-sensitive dyes, surface functionalization techniques, dye immobilization strategies, and innovative fabrication methods are discussed. Possible limitations of colorimetric sensors, including dye leaching, stability challenges, accuracy issues, and inadequate reversibility are summarized, and research initiatives aimed at improving sensor performance, durability, and wearability, such as encapsulation, multi-layer coatings, sol-gel methods, hydrogels, printing, chemical and physical bonding, and printing, are included. Besides, novel techniques such as nanofiber-based dye encapsulation and sensor miniaturization, and enhancement of sensor sensitivity, dye retention, and response time, are highlighted. This work will shed light on future development of textile-based pH sensors for wearable, non-invasive and reliable medical applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Textile Science & Research Journal
Processing and Characterization of Conductive Polyether Ether Ketone/Carbon Nanotube Monofilaments and Core–Sheath Filaments
The increasing demand for lightweight, high-performance materials has driven the development of textile-reinforced composites with integrated sensing capabilities. While thermoset-based composites have established sensor integration strategies, thermoplastic composites face challenges due to high processing temperatures. This study presents a novel approach to produce high-temperature-resistant, electrically conductive polyether ether ketone with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PEEK/MWCNT) monofilament and core-sheath (PEEK-MWCNT/PEEK) filament yarns suitable for textile processing and structural health monitoring. Filaments were produced using a twin-screw extrusion site and a bicomponent melt spinning plant, systematically varying MWCNT content (1.0–7.0 wt.%) and process parameters. Differential scanning calorimetry revealed that MWCNTs influence PEEK crystallinity, glass transition temperature, and thermal transitions, while scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed filler dispersion and morphology. Mechanical testing demonstrated increased stiffness and tensile strength with higher MWCNT loading, while elongation at break decreased. Integration of conductive filaments into glass fiber/polypropylene (GF/PP) composites maintained or slightly improved composite mechanical properties. Electrical contacting via crimping combined with conductive epoxy provided stable, low-resistance connections. The results demonstrate that PEEK/MWCNT sensor yarns are suitable for high-temperature, textile-reinforced thermoplastic composites, offering a robust platform for intrinsically conductive, processable, and mechanically stable structural health monitoring systems.
ANALYSIS OF MECHANICAL PROPERTIES AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS OF KNITTED FABRICS PREPARED FROM NANO-ZNO TWISTED YARNS
This study investigates the effects of the twisting process of yarns containing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the mechanical properties and antibacterial performance of knitted fabrics, and evaluates their feasibility as functional textile materials. Two- and three-ply ZnO-containing yarns were prepared using a ring-twisting machine at various speeds to obtain twist coefficients ranging from 0 to 5. The twisted yarns were then fabricated into knitted fabrics and evaluated for their physical properties, including hairiness, tensile strength, air permeability, and water vapor transmission rate (WVTR). Results revealed that increasing the twist coefficient significantly reduced yarn hairiness, indicating enhanced fiber compactness. The fabrics with a twist coefficient of 3 (samples 2Zn-3C-K and 3Zn-3C-K) exhibited optimal mechanical strength and air permeability, whereas excessive twisting (≥4) led to a decrease in tensile strength due to fiber over-twisting.For antibacterial evaluation, Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) was used as the test strain. The results showed a marked reduction in bacterial colonies with increasing twist coefficients, achieving antibacterial rates of 87% and 90% for samples 2Zn-5C-K and 3Zn-5C-K, respectively.
Design and properties of wool seamless garment for outdoor sports based on ergonomics
To address the limitations of traditional outdoor sportswear in meeting the diverse and dynamic thermoregulatory and moisture management demands of different body regions during exercise, eight bionic knitted fabrics inspired by Victoria amazonica were prepared with wool and deodorizing spandex/polypropylene covered yarn as materials. The deodorizing, thermal-moisture comfort, and mechanical properties of the fabrics were measured. Then wool seamless garment based on ergonomics was designed resulting from comprehensive evaluation with the eight fabrics by the grey near optimal method. Also, infrared thermal imaging temperature measurement and sensory evaluation of wool seamless garment were carried out. The results showed that the main vein structure fabric had the best comprehensive performance, with air permeability rate of 390.78 mm/s and a moisture permeability rate of 454.77 g/ (m2×h). After exercise, the maximum temperature difference between the start of exercise and the third minute after exercise of the wool seamless garments for outdoor sports was 2.9℃, which was lower than the 4.4°C difference observed in regular sportswear; the odor intensity was rated as slight, confirming its superior deodorizing properties and thermal-moisture comfort.
TENSILE STRENGTH AND STRAIN OF VACUUM INFUSION BANANA FIBER REINFORCED COMPOSITE USING EPOXY RESIN
Banana fiber is regarded as one of the natural fibers suitable for spinning and weaving, owing to its adequate length, durability, environmental impact, abundance and fine texture. Its significance has been increasing, especially in line with the global environmental issues, where green composites are capturing the attention of researchers worldwide. Banana fibers are applicable in various areas of life, including clothing, home decor, and paneling. The use of panels is particularly favored in sectors like automotive, aerospace, construction, and other industrial applications. Additionally, banana fiber composites have drawn interest for their thermal and acoustic insulation properties, attributed to their unique hollow fiber structure containing cavities and a high porosity ratio. In this study production of panels using banana fiber as a reinforcement employing epoxy resin as a matrix is performed using vacuum infusion process (VIP). The produced panels have been tested for tensile strength and strain according to ISO 527-4. The study showed a promising result compared to similar natural fibers. The results fall within a common range observed for natural fiber composites, but it's generally on the lower to mid-range compared to some of the higher-performing banana fiber epoxy composites reported. By addressing these factors, the mechanical performance of banana fiber epoxy composites can be significantly enhanced, making them more competitive for various applications.
Copyright (c) 2026 HASABO ABDELBAGI MOHAMED AHMED, RAMADAN MOHMMED, NEVIN GURSOY, PELIN ALTAY, YOUSIF A.A (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Integrating Wearable Sensor Networks into Firefighter Uniforms: Design, Development and Evaluation of a Smart E-Textile System
Firefighters operate in hazardous environments characterised by extreme heat, low visibility, and high physical demand. This study presents the design, fabrication, and evaluation of a smart e-textile prototype aimed at improving firefighter safety through real-time physiological and environmental monitoring. A sensor-integrated garment was developed using a 100% cotton base and an Adafruit Circuit Playground Bluefruit microcontroller with pulse, temperature, and motion sensors. The system transmits data to a cloud-based web interface via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for remote monitoring. Evaluation covered comfort, mobility, system responsiveness, and accuracy of sensor data. Results indicated reliable signal transmission and comfort, though challenges remained with sensor alignment and accelerometer-based location accuracy. This research contributes to the growing field of smart protective clothing and outlines a scalable framework for integrating wearable technologies into emergency responder uniforms.
Electrospinning of UHMWPE Nanofibers: Challenges and Solution Strategies
This study investigates the feasibility of fabricating nanofibers from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) using electrospinning, a technique traditionally limited by UHMWPE's high melt viscosity, poor solubility, and low electrical conductivity. A series of experimental trials were conducted using different polymer grades, solvent systems, conductivity-enhancing additives, and thermal control strategies. Initial trials using decalin revealed homogeneous dissolution at elevated temperatures (~130 °C) but were limited by rapid thermo-reversible gelation and high viscosity, which inhibited continuous fiber formation. Thermal stabilization using silicone pad heaters and oil baths extended spinnability, yet precise temperature control remained a challenge. To improve electro-spinnability, additives such as tetra-n-butylammonium bromide (TBAB) and cyclohexanone were introduced, resulting in improved conductivity and Taylor cone formation. A novel approach utilizing terpene—a biocompatible and non-carcinogenic solvent—demonstrated promising results in dissolving UHMWPE while reducing toxicological concerns. However, successful and continuous nanofiber production remained constrained by the narrow thermal processing window between the needle tip and collector. The findings highlight the critical interplay between solvent selection, rheology, conductivity, and thermal environment in the electrospinning of UHMWPE.
BaTiO₃-Based Piezoelectric Smart Textile for Energy Harvesting and Touch-Triggered Electroluminescent Display
Smart textiles, which rely on biomechanical energy gathered from the environment, offer the most self-powered sensing and performance in interactive displays. The design, manufacture, and testing of textiles with multilayer piezoelectric made of polyvinyl siloxane and barium titanate (BaTiO₃) are demonstrated in this work. A silver-coated yarn is also utilized for the exterior functionalization, electric poling, and dip-coating with BaTiO₃/vinyl-siloxane paste at three distinct ceramic volume loadings (30%, 50%, and 70%) to enhance the tip-enhanced piezoelectric response of the yarns. Data indicate that electric signals produced by the cotton tap are amplified using an electronics unit equipped with a comparator and a charge amplifier. Reflect that data to light the EL-based PVDF yarn. Such a system could efficiently produce touching-triggered luminescence with apparent perspective in the development of self-powered wearables used for sensing and visual feedback. The demonstration and achievement of the yarns' piezoelectric performance served as the inspiration for both performances and displays; open-circuited voltage concepts are roughly 1.5V under 1N of a tip, and EL permits performance exceeding 95%. Sustainable evaluation because it has enabled the recall of touch to light operation standards, resulting in over 10,000 tap cycles and few or no washing cycles. The efforts are showcased in the lead-up to the development of flexible-line-piezo pressure devices that enabled wearable, effective monitoring, human-machine collaboration, and stable, self-operating, interactive clothing.
Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Textiles: A Review of Circular Economy Applications
The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) presents a paradigm shift for enhancing sustainability within the textile industry. This review examines the transformative potential of these technologies in fostering a circular economy, with a focus on material design, process optimisation, and end-of-life solutions. It surveys applications across textile science, from natural fibre composites to technical and smart textiles, highlighting the role of predictive modelling and ML algorithms—including neural networks, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), and random forests. These techniques are demonstrated to enhance the design of fibre-based materials, predict key properties such as tensile strength and thermal stability, and optimise manufacturing processes like dyeing and weaving. Furthermore, the review explores the significant contribution of computer vision to automated quality control, defect detection, and the assessment of garment condition for resale, thereby supporting circular business models. A central theme is the capacity of AI to drive sustainability by enabling zero-waste pattern design, improving colour prediction accuracy to reduce chemical waste, and advancing automated textile sorting for recycling. Despite this promising progress, the principal challenges identified are not algorithmic but systemic, relating to data scarcity, integration complexities, and the need for cross-sector collaboration. The review concludes by identifying critical future research directions, emphasising the need for robust, physics-informed models, the collaborative development of larger, more diverse datasets, and AI-driven Design for Disassembly (DfD) to fully realise AI's potential in creating a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable textile industry. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Circular Economy; Textile Recycling; Predictive Modelling; Computer Vision; Sustainable Manufacturing
FTIR Evaluation of Alkaline Hydrogen Peroxide Bleached Cellulose from Jackfruit Peel and Leaf
The need for plant waste valorization has become a subject area that most researchers have delved into. One of such aspects is cellulose extraction from jackfruit tree waste which is seen as a commercially underutilized plant. In this research cellulose was extracted from Jackfruit Peel (JFP) and Jackfruit Leaf (JFL) using hydrogen peroxide, nitric acid, acetic acid and alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP) bleaching solutions respectively to purify the extracted cellulose. Comprehensive characterization of the cellulose was performed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The peel yielded 17.4% of cellulose while the leaf gave 33.21% cellulose yield after AHP bleaching which achieved higher purification efficiency than the other bleaching solutions. The level of purity of cellulose after AHP bleaching is comparable to that of the commercial cellulose based on the FTIR results. However, with EDS carbon weight concentration of up to 84%, JFP cellulose proved to be purer than JFL cellulose. FTIR spectroscopy also confirmed their cellulose content in relation to commercial cellulose while morphological characterization with SEM revealed separated single cellulose fibres of JFL and the compacted cellulose fibre sheets of JFP. JFP cellulose also has a higher crystalline index (41.2%) than JFL cellulose based on the XRD result. Both plant parts can be sustainable sources of cellulose for industrial use.
Piezoelectric Twisted Yarn as an Engineering Platform to Scale-up Stretchable and Breathable Energy Harvesters
A highly stretchable piezoelectric nanofibrous yarn of PVDF/ZnO composite was electrospun through a one-step electrospinning method to facial the fabrication process of wearable nanogenerator device in a desired weave patterns and mechanical properties. Electrospun yarns of different counts, twists per meter, and fibers fineness were fabricated on a modified electrospinning setup and then their piezoelectric and mechanical properties were evaluated. Results showed that an increase in twists number and take up speed increase the output voltage of the fabricated strip of yarns. In spite of this, by increasing the amount of ZnO nanoparticles from 5% to 15% in the yarn nanofibers, the output voltage increased significantly which is contributed to the nature of strong piezoelectric properties of ZnO piezo-ceramic materials. It is believed that the whole piezoelectric device prepared by piezoelectric yarns is attractive for a variety of wearable applications, such as wearable generator to collect energy from human movement as a building block of energy- harvesting textiles, and in self-powered biomedical applications. The results of this work can be utilized as a platform to scale-up towards the fabrication of flexible and stretchable energy harvesting devices.
Optimization of design and FDM Process Parameters for Enhanced Mechanical Performance of 3D Printed Woven Fabric Structures
Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) is a widely used additive manufacturing technique capable of producing textile-like structures using thermoplastic polymers. This study focuses on optimizing 3D printed woven fabrics using PLA filament. Mechanical characterization through tensile and flexural testing was conducted in both warp and weft directions. A Taguchi L9 orthogonal array was employed for efficient experimental design. The results were analyzed using response table and main effect plots, and the mechanical properties were optimized using regression modeling in MINITAB. Findings reveal that different properties are governed by different parameters. Layer height significantly influenced strength while design played a key role in modulus. Directional anisotropy was observed with notable differences in mechanical behavior between warp and weft orientations. Optimal parameter combinations were identified for individual properties. Twill design with higher layer height and temperature showed enhanced flexibility, while basket weaves with moderate settings favored strength. The study provides valuable insights for tailoring FDM-printed textile structures, paving the way for high-performance, customizable, and scalable fabric applications.
Copyright (c) 2025 Textile Science & Research Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
MICROSTRUCTURAL CHANGES IN SECONDARY CELLULOSE DURING ENZYMATIC BIOPOLISHING
In order to restore the primary texture and improve the properties of fabric made from secondary cellulose, enzymatic biopolishing using cellulase was applied. Microstructural changes in secondary cellulose during the biopolishing process, resulting from the breaking of certain chemical bonds and removal of impurities, were identified using FTIR spectroscopy. It was shown that enzymatic treatment increases the degree of amorphousness of the cellulose matrix and enhances its functional and technological properties during chemical finishing processes. The advantages of the biopolymer modification method were confirmed by comparing surface density, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and air permeability of fabrics made from untreated secondary cellulose, traditionally treated with soap-alkaline solutions, and enzymatically treated.
Copyright (c) 2026 RAFIKOV ADHAM SALIMOVICH, JURAYEVA GULNOZA ABDURASHID QIZI, ABDUSAMATOVA DILFUZA OZOTOVNA (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ANALYSIS OF NYLON MATERIAL PROCESSING
The goal of the study is to examine and assess the influence of various water sources, energy inputs, and their effect on carbon emissions. The approach included site visits to the textile production mill and discussions with both the production and commercial procurement teams to collect data from the last three calendar years. The findings and conclusions of this analysis show that Textile manufacturing contributes to a considerable amount of carbon emissions, approximately 3.1 kgCO2e/kg of nylon fabric. Purchasing electricity as an energy source generates the highest carbon emissions 3.03 kgCO2e/kg of nylon fabric, In contrast, the use of LPG fuel and Diesel fuel resulted in notably lower CO2 emissions. Additionally, this study assessed the emissions in the scope 1 and scope 2 categories during the textile processing stage, which contributed to 136535 kg CO2e. Personalization in the application of sizing chemicals using industry 4.0 techniques, such as warping, sizing and weaving can further minimize the consumption of resources, water, and energy. Prioritizing the design of waterless processes should be central to energy optimization efforts. Energy usage, which is directly related to the amount of water needed for the slashing process. Sizing processors are somewhat reluctant to adopt these changes due to the added production costs. Coordinated efforts from all stakeholders in the textile value chain are essential to address the sustainability challenges in textile manufacturing. This case study focuses on five out of the seventeen sustainable development goals (SDGs): 6-Clean water and sanitation, 7-Affordable and clean energy, 12-Responsible production and consumption, 13-Climate action, and 15-Life on land.
Copyright (c) 2026 AKSHAY VADE, DR. ASHOK ATHALYE (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0