A review of stimuli-responsive polymers for smart textile applications

Jinlian Hu*, Harper Meng, Guoqiang Li, Samuel I Ibekwe

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

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. © 2012 IOP Publishing Ltd.
Original languageEnglish
Article number053001
JournalSmart Materials and Structures
Volume21
Issue number5
Online published18 Apr 2012
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2012
Externally publishedYes

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