Abstract
Stimuli-responsive polymers (SRPs) are smart materials which can show noticeable changes in their properties with environmental stimulus variations. Novel functionalities can be delivered to textiles by integrating smart SRPs into them. SRPs inclusive of thermal-responsive polymers, moisture-responsive polymers, thermal-responsive hydrogels, pH-responsive hydrogels, and light-responsive polymers have been applied in textiles to improve or achieve textile smart functionalities. The functionalities include aesthetic appeal, comfort, textile soft display, smart controlled drug release, fantasy design with color changing, wound monitoring, smart wetting properties and protection against extreme variations in environmental conditions. In this review, the applications of SRPs in the textile and clothing sector are elucidated; the associated constraints in fabrication processes for textiles and their potential applications in the near future are discussed.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 053001 |
| Journal | Smart Materials and Structures |
| Volume | 21 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 1 May 2012 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Signal Processing
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
- Civil and Structural Engineering
- General Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanics of Materials
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering