Modern Applications of Nanotechnology in Textiles

Nanotechnology (NT) deals with materials 1 to 100 nm in length. At the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI), NT is defined as the understanding, manipulation, and control of matter at the above-stated length, such that the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the materials (individual atoms, molecules, and bulk matter) can be engineered, synthesized, and altered to develop the next generation of improved materials, devices, structures, and systems. NT at the molecular level can be used to develop desired textile characteristics, such as high tensile strength, unique surface structure, soft hand, durability, water repellency, fire retardancy, antimicrobial properties, and the like. Indeed, advances in NT have created enormous opportunities and challenges for the textile industry, including the cotton industry. The focus of this paper is to summarize recent applications of NT as they relate to textile fibers, yarns, and fabrics.