Chapter 15 - Biomimetic approaches to the design of smart textiles

Abstract

Biomimetic technology offers a potential opportunity by establishing a link between natural materials and textiles. When the surfaces of plants, insects, and microorganisms in nature are examined, owing to their advantages such as complex, hierarchical microstructures, hydrophobic properties, and modifications by adapting to the environmental conditions, it is appealing to give textile products a more functional and sustainable structure inspired by these natural material surfaces. Adaptation of these structures into textiles leads to “smart” properties that can perceive and/or respond to environmental stimuli, without compromising comfort and durability. In this section, the use, integration, and future perspectives of the biomimetic approach with smart textile products from natural sources are examined. In addition, smart biomimetic materials used for textile engineering are summarized, and the design parameters, such as breathability, ultraviolet protection, sensing, self-cleaning, antifouling, and personalized health care, are focused on, and future prospects are discussed.