Search Results (406)

The rapid development of modern sports has placed higher demands on athlete protection. Traditional protective gear relying on passive energy dissipation through bulk materials such as foam and gel suffers from limitations like large volume and poor adaptability, driving the evolution of protection technology toward active and intelligent solutions. Impact absorption and damping coating technology, which integrates advanced functional materials in thin-film form onto the surface of protective gear, has achieved a paradigm shift in protective performance and is advancing toward lightweight, intelligent, and customizable designs. This review first systematically elaborates on the working principles and performance regulation mechanisms of novel coating systems centered on shear-thickening fluids, polymer gels, microstructural biomimetics, and phase-change materials. Secondly, it deeply analyzes the application modes and protective efficacy improvements of these technologies in specific scenarios such as helmets, joint protectors, and smart clothing. Furthermore, it explores the complex interaction mechanisms between coatings and human tissues under dynamic impact. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future trends in the evolution of this technology toward multifunctional integration, dynamic adaptability, and precise personalized design, aiming to provide a systematic reference for interdisciplinary innovation in fields such as materials science, biomechanics, and sports medicine. Full article

Children’s skin is uniquely vulnerable, requiring specialised design solutions that transcend traditional aesthetics. This exploratory study investigates the importance of paediatric dermatology in informing functional fashion design through expert medical perspectives. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered from a purposive cohort of paediatric dermatologists and immunoallergologists and analysed through inductive thematic analysis. Findings identify four core themes: the physiological immaturity of children’s skin (notably the prevalence of atopic dermatitis), clothing’s role as a symptomatic aggravator rather than a primary aetiology, the clinical risks posed by chemical additives in synthetic textile processes, and the therapeutic potential of natural fibres and biofunctional agents. The data also highlights significant diagnostic constraints in paediatric patch testing, emphasising the necessity of proactive material safety. The findings suggest that integrating healthcare expertise into human-centred design may support the development of safer paediatric clothing solutions, ensuring that fashion industry innovation meets the physiological requirements of children. By transitioning from hazardous synthetic processes to biocompatible textiles, such as undyed natural fibres and medicinal plant-derived dyes, the industry can transform apparel from a potential irritant into a secondary protective barrier. This provides initial insights for developing clothing that safeguards the skin barrier and improves the overall wellbeing of vulnerable populations. Full article

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical for defending against airborne biological hazards; however, current standard testing protocols often rely on “black-box” aggregate metrics or qualitative visual inspections that fail to pinpoint localized vulnerabilities. This study proposes a novel, spatially resolved quantitative methodology combining a whole-body fluorescent aerosol exposure chamber with an entropy-based image processing algorithm. By establishing a robust linear calibration mode, we accurately mapped and quantified localized aerosol ingress through protective clothing interfaces. Dynamic human-in-simulant tests were conducted using three suit models on two subjects with distinct body morphologies over 2- and 5-min exposure durations. Quantitative results revealed two distinct morphological failure mechanisms. A well-fitted suit resulted in steady “ Steady Accumulation,” where the total body leakage mass increased consistently (e.g., from 3.29 to 4.19 μg/cm²) while maintaining stable standard deviation, indicating preserved structural integrity. Conversely, an oversized fit induced “Structural Instability” and an erratic “Bellows Effect.” This mismatch was characterized by a dramatic inflation in aerosol leakage standard deviation during extended dynamic movements, rather than a simple increase in the mean leakage. Ultimately, this study empirically proves that protective clothing efficacy is highly morphology-dependent. The proposed quantitative methodology provides a rigorous scientific tool for diagnosing localized interface failures, thereby facilitating targeted improvements in PPE design and occupational safety. Full article

The global textile industry, challenged by resource depletion and environmental pollution, urgently requires a shift toward a circular economy. However, recycling efforts remain limited, focusing mainly on conventional fibers and neglecting high-performance materials like aramid. This study addresses the recycling of used firefighting protective clothing-an aramid-rich, high-turnover waste stream typically landfilled or incinerated. Life cycle assessment reveals the significant carbon footprint of its production and disposal, underscoring the need for circular strategies. A systematic recycling framework is established, integrating collection logistics and redesign principles. A graded “three-tier” approach is proposed, enabling direct reuse, yarn regeneration, and non-woven production based on material conditions. High-value products were developed by incorporating firefighting heritage and intangible cultural crafts into the design, supported by digital product passports for traceability. These strategies enhanced market acceptance and emotional value. The work provides a scalable circular solution for high-performance textiles, aiming to extend material life, reduce carbon emissions, and advance sustainable textile management through a novel combination of technical recycling and cultural value addition. Full article

Textile fabrics intended for use in protective clothing, workwear, and uniforms are subjected to repeated high-temperature industrial washing and drying processes. It is evident that due to the rigorous nature of the prescribed preservation conditions, textiles that are currently utilised for this purpose do not contain elastomeric yarns: a consequence of their suboptimal thermal stability. However, elastomers enable garments to better fit the wearer’s figure and enhance safety and comfort during occupational activities. Currently, no investigations of EOL (elastolefin) yarn elastic durability under commercial maintenance conditions have been conducted. The publication evaluates the elastic properties and pilling resistance of fabrics with EOL-core weft yarns before and after repeated industrial washing under conditions that are typical of rental use. Additionally, an analysis using SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, thermal and thermogravimetric techniques of core-yarns and the core itself was performed. The tested fabrics retained a high elasticity index, even after 100 industrial washing cycles, as confirmed by instrumental analysis. In conclusion, fabrics with EOL-core yarns can be used for garments that are subjected to intensive maintenance in industrial washing conditions without losing their elastic properties. Full article

Cotton fabrics are widely used in textiles due to their comfort and breathability, but their high flammability (limiting oxygen index (LOI) ≤ 18%) poses serious safety risks. While conventional flame-retardant treatments often rely on synthetic chemicals or toxic additives, biobased alternatives remain underdeveloped. The flame resistance of cotton fabrics may be enhanced using multilayer biocoatings of chitosan and sodium alginate applied via layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly—a sustainable and scalable approach. Cotton samples were coated with chitosan and sodium alginate bilayers (1, 2, 5, and 10 layers) using the LBL method. Flame resistance was evaluated using vertical flame tests and limiting oxygen index (LOI) testing according to ASTM D2863-09. The sample coated with 10 bilayers significantly outperformed uncoated cotton and lower-layer samples. With a char length of 9.72 cm (68% reduction), no dripping was observed in the vertical flame tests, and the LOI value was 23.47% compared to uncoated cotton (LOI = 18.04%). These improvements were attributed to the formation of a cohesive and protective carbon layer, which is likely capable of inhibiting the formation of flammable gases. Biomaterial multilayer coatings made from biomaterials, such as chitosan and sodium alginate, represent a promising and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods in improving cotton’s flame resistance. The development of this technology points to potential applications in protective textiles and industrial safety clothing. Notably, chitosan and sodium alginate coatings are biocompatible. The term “biomaterials” refers to materials intended for interaction with biological systems, particularly for biomedical-related applications. The term “biobased materials” is used exclusively to describe materials derived from renewable biological sources. Full article

The widespread use of wireless technologies raises concerns about health effects and electromagnetic interference (EMI). This study aims to investigate the EMI-shielding properties of functional textiles using modified multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) dispersed in different polymeric matrices as coating inks. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) combined with MWCNT showed promise. For instance, a textile coated with a PEDOT:PSS-based ink containing 5 wt.% of N-doped MWCNT with a thickness of 140 µm achieved a shielding effectiveness (SE) of 31.0 dB (221 dB µm⁻¹) in the 5.85–18 GHz range. This fabric is classified as ‘excellent’ for general use and may be suitable for EMI-protective clothing. Some tests using silicone as a polymer matrix demonstrated improved SE through resonance phenomena. Full article

Deployed armed forces and the public engaged in outdoor activities are at high risk for mosquito bites and the diseases they transmit. Current mosquito bite-resistant garments prevent blood-feeding with slow-release insecticide formulations. Many people today want to avoid contact with pesticides, especially in their clothing. Insecticide treated clothing also is costly and requires regulatory agency approvals. Using mosquito bite-resistant mathematical textile models and a WholeGarment^® knitting technique, a seamless garment was constructed with military-compliant, no-melt, no-drip flame retardant yarns using an AiryPique knit architecture. The garment was 99.5% bite proof in walk-in cage bioassays with 200 Aedes aegypti host-seeking mosquitoes where the human subjects did not move for 20 min. A standard flame test and a PyroMan^TM flammability study validated the garment’s fire protection, a requirement for military uniforms. The thermal physiological comfort tests (air permeability, wetting time/radius, thermal resistance, evaporative resistance, and sweating thermal manikin test) were similar to current army combat uniforms and appropriate for use in everyday clothing. Bite prevention occurred by physically blocking the insect mouth parts from obtaining a blood meal. The knitting technique is well-suited for mass production of bite-resistant clothing through automation, significantly reducing labor, time, and cost by optimizing “fit on demand” for different body types compared to traditional manufacturing methods. This innovation provides a non-insecticidal, safe, scalable, and efficient solution for protecting individuals against mosquito bites. Full article

Heat exposure during strenuous exercise increases core temperature and cardiovascular strain, impairing performance and elevating the risk of heat illness. Standard countermeasures include heat acclimation, cooling, and hydration/electrolyte planning. Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid present in excitable tissues and widely used as an oral supplement; emerging human trials suggest it can augment thermoregulation, primarily by enhancing eccrine sweating and evaporative heat loss. This narrative review synthesizes mechanistic and applied evidence on taurine during exercise in hot environments and evaluates potential interactions with acclimation, cooling strategies (pre- and per-cooling), and hydration practices. Across a small number of randomized, mostly double-blind crossover studies, acute (~50 mg/kg) or short-term multi-day supplementation has been associated with earlier sweat onset, higher sweat production, modestly lower core temperature (~0.3–0.4 °C), and, in one multi-arm trial, a large standardized reduction in core temperature (d ≈ 1.9), with improved exercise capacity or performance. Benefits appear to be context-dependent and may be attenuated when sweating is constrained (e.g., impermeable protective clothing) or when heat acclimation is already optimized. Because taurine may increase sweat losses, its use should be paired with individualized fluid and sodium replacement. Current evidence is promising but remains constrained by small samples and heterogeneous protocols; adequately powered field trials are required to establish dose–response, safety and efficacy across populations, and additive value when combined with established heat-mitigation strategies. Full article

This study explored, for the first time, the simultaneous dyeing and functionalization of textiles using enzymatically synthesized mixtures of phloridzin and esculin oligomers. Initial screening using multifiber fabric containing diacetate, cotton, polyamide, polyester, polyacrylonitrile, silk, viscose, and wool revealed that the oligomers successfully imparted color and high antioxidant activity to cotton, polyamide, and viscose. These three materials were therefore selected for determination of key process parameters’ influence, including temperature (35 °C and 75 °C), reaction time (6 h and 19 h), and oligomers’ concentration (1.5 and 3.0 mg/mL). Treated fabrics were evaluated for color strength (K/S), antioxidant activity, and prebiotic capacity (in vitro stratum corneum model), with all properties assessed before and after washing. The results showed that several functionalized fabrics retained coloration and functionality after washing, while fabrics functionalized with esculin oligomers’ mixture showed strong prebiotic capacity. Overall, the polyamide that functionalized with 3.0 mg/mL esculin oligomers for 19 h at 35 °C was identified as a promising candidate for reusable colored textiles, including dermatology-oriented garments for sensitive or atopic skin, sportswear, protective workwear, and daily use functional items such as hygienic pads or cloth liners. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of developing textiles with targeted prebiotic functionality. Full article

Wildland firefighting involves prolonged, high-intensity physical work performed under hot, variable, and operationally demanding conditions, placing firefighters at substantial risk of heat-related illness. This paper synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, contributing factors, and management of heat stress in wildland firefighting, with a specific focus on physiologically and operationally relevant considerations aligned with NIOSH, NFPA, and USFS guidelines. Heat stress is conceptualized as a cumulative process resulting from the interaction of metabolic heat production, environmental heat load, protective clothing, and individual susceptibility. Key environmental contributors include high ambient temperatures, humidity, and solar and fire-related radiant heat, while occupational demands such as sustained heavy work, extended shift durations, limited recovery, and the thermal burden of personal protective equipment further exacerbate risk. Individual factors—including fitness, hydration status, acclimatization, fatigue, and underlying health conditions—modify heat tolerance and vulnerability. This review highlights evidence-based exposure management strategies tailored to wildland fire operations, including work–rest cycles, heat acclimatization protocols, and practical cooling interventions, and addresses the operational constraints that shape their implementation. This paper further emphasizes the role of standardized training programs in prevention, early symptom recognition, and rapid response. Together, these integrated approaches provide a focused framework for reducing heat-related morbidity and enhancing wildland firefighter safety. Full article

Traditional firefighting protective clothing materials, such as meta- and para-aramid fibers, provide significant thermal protection but often fail to adequately manage heat stress and moisture, especially due to the incorporation of semi-permeable membranes within the three-layer garment structure known as turnout gear. Integrating hydrogels into textiles for firefighting personal protective clothing (PPC) could enhance thermoregulation and moisture management, providing firefighters with improved comfort and safety. Hydrogels are three-dimensional, hydrophilic polymer networks capable of holding substantial amounts of water. Their high water content and excellent thermal properties make them ideal for cooling applications. Therefore, this review focuses on the potential of hydrogel-infused textiles to improve firefighters’ PPC by enhancing thermal comfort and moisture management. Specifically, hydrogel structures and engineered properties for enhanced performance are presented, including smart hydrogels and hydration customization mechanisms. Hydrogel integration into firefighting PPC for moisture management and improved thermoregulation is explored, including current and future market projections and state-of-the-art clinical trial findings. Overall, the future of hydrogel-integrated textiles for firefighting PPC is bright, with numerous advancements and trends poised to enhance the safety, comfort, and performance of protective gear. Full article

With the rapid advancement of modern electronic devices and wireless communication systems, electromagnetic pollution has become a prominent issue, prompting the development of high-performance electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding materials. Although traditional metal shielding materials exhibit excellent conductivity, there are many limitations such as high weight, poor flexibility, susceptibility to corrosion, and high cost. To overcome these challenges, in this study, we design and fabricate core-spun yarns using polyester filaments as the core and an aluminum-foil-wrapped layer as the conductive outer component, and further weave them into three conductive fabrics with different structural parameters. Through systematic investigation of their surface morphology, air permeability, electrical properties, and EMI shielding performance, DT5W27 demonstrates optimal overall performance: electrical conductivity of 2722.64 S·m⁻¹, shielding effectiveness of 37.29 dB, and electromagnetic wave attenuation rate of 99.99%. Specifically, even after 100 bending, twisting cycles, and exposure to solutions with pH values ranging from 3 to 9, the fabric maintains high shielding performance. The fabrication process is facile and low cost, and these composites have good flexibility, outstanding EMI shielding performance, exceptional mechanical durability, and chemical stability. These advantages make them have broad application potential in protective clothing and lightweight shielding materials. Full article

Medical personnel wearing barrier clothing protecting against infectious agents are at risk of heat stress resulting from limited heat exchange with the environment. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of changing underwear on the thermal parameters of protective clothing sets and on the expected safe working time. The study used a Newton thermal manikin to determine the thermal insulation and water vapor resistance of clothing sets consisting of three types of underwear (standard medical underwear and short and long thermal underwear) worn under two types of barrier suits. The obtained data were used to conduct physiological simulations in the Predicted Heat Strain (PHS) program, estimating the time it takes for core body temperature to rise to 38 °C in conditions of 22 °C and 35 °C. The results showed that replacing medical underwear with thermal underwear at 22 °C extended safe working time by 24%. In hot conditions (35 °C), the positive impact was smaller, extending working time by a maximum of 4%. Changing the inner layer is an effective method of improving comfort and safety in barrier clothing, especially in thermoneutral conditions. Full article

In response to mounting resource and environmental pressures in the textile industry, this study investigates the feasibility of fiber-to-fiber closed-loop recycling for used firefighting protective clothing—a waste stream characterized by material homogeneity and large-scale disposal. Employing a mixed-methods approach combining stakeholder questionnaires, field investigations (n = 3650), and performance testing of retired aramid fabrics, this research systematically evaluates the technical, market, and systemic potential for circular regeneration. Results demonstrate strong multi-stakeholder support (over 89%) and significant consumer willingness to purchase recycled products (81.01–84% across categories), while material tests confirm the retained flame resistance and mechanical properties of the fabrics, enabling high-value applications. By constructing an integrated framework spanning technical, policy, market, and cultural dimensions, and proposing strategies of “targeted recycling” and “value reconstruction,” this work confirms the commercial viability and environmental benefit of recycling firefighting gear. It further offers a transferable model for advancing the circularity of other safety and protective textiles, with key innovations lying in its comprehensive full-chain assessment and the concurrent validation of stakeholder dynamics and material performance. Full article