Nanotechnology and Computers in Clothing- A Growing Field
stem·@truth2·
0.000 HBDNanotechnology and Computers in Clothing- A Growing Field
 Resources and Links Image credit- Pixabay https://www.azonano.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=3129 https://sustainable-nano.com/2018/11/28/nano-textiles/ https://www.lifewire.com/how-smart-fabrics-could-turn-clothes-into-computers-5179545 The Olympics were a showcase for engineered clothing that incorporated nanotechnology. Nanotechnology promises to deliver high-performance for clothing, and may redefine how we think about clothing care and functionality. In the future, clothing will likely house computers that will aid us in our endeavors, and could give us early warning of health and environmental hazards. Nanotechnology in clothing engineering involves the plating of very small particles onto the fibers of the garment. Silver has anti-microbial properties, and has been incorporated into clothing since the early 2000’s to reduce body odor and the risk of bacterial infection. Clothing fibers can be plated with individual molecules, nanostructures and even atoms in such a way to gain additional functionality and even to monitor the wearer. What are the biggest downsides of clothing? Clothing gets dirty, and needs to be washed regularly. Clothing also gets wet and can become a hazard during performance athletics or survival scenarios. Clothing with fibers impregnated with silver and copper nanoparticles can react with dirt and may be able to self-clean. Clothing may be made with nano-stuctures such as silicone “nanopatterns” that can repel water to a surprising degree. Other developments in clothing nanotechnology target odors and chemicals that may arise during times of stress. Clothing may also be engineered to deter theft. Clothing may also be engineered to shield electronics, and Faraday cage clothing and hats are currently on the market for purchase. Another aspect of clothing engineering is the incorporation of computers into clothing. Our smartphones currently perform many daily electronic functions while we are on the go, but engineered clothing offers even more upside. Recently, a Chinese engineering group has made strides in developing a cloth-like computer that can be powered by solar energy. Engineered clothing could be made to detect hazardous environmental conditions, to darken and prevent sun burn and overexposure. Engineered fabrics can enable a map to be displayed for the user to follow, and can even warm or cool to limit discomfort in the elements. The downside of engineered clothing and nanogarments is waste. Silver commonly found in anti-microbial clothing may accumulate after being washed out of the fibers and may pose an environmental threat. The same goals for other plated metals and nanostructures that may constitute e-waste and even hazardous waste. If the use of electronic garments and nanograments becomes widely adopted, filters at municipal water-works and recycling of clothing needs to be adopted as well. We have come a long way since we wore animal skins and leather on a regular basis, and the future looks bright for performance clothing. Engineered clothing that monitors us, protects us and is self-managing is the future. What we wear is a reflection of our character to many people, and the possibilities of these new garments is immense. Posted in Hive and Steemit