Textile Products Research Articles

Integrative Transcriptomic and Metabolic Analyses Reveal That Flavonoid Biosynthesis Is the Key Pathway Regulating Pigment Deposition in Naturally Brown Cotton Fibers.

Brown cotton is a major cultivar of naturally colored cotton, and brown cotton fibers (BCFs) are widely utilized as raw materials for textile industry production due to their advantages of being green and dyeing-pollution-free. However, the mechanisms underlying the pigmentation in fibers are still poorly understood, which significantly limits their extensive applications in related fields. In this study, we conducted a multidimensional comparative analysis of the transcriptomes and metabolomes between brown and white fibers at different developmental periods to identify the key genes and pathways regulating the pigment deposition. The transcriptomic results indicated that the pathways of flavonoid biosynthesis and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis were significantly enriched regulatory pathways, especially in the late development periods of fiber pigmentation; furthermore, the genes distributed in the pathways of PAL, CHS, F3H, DFR, ANR, and UFGT were identified as significantly up-regulated genes. The metabolic results showed that six metabolites, namely (-)-Epigallocatechin, Apiin, Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, Gallocatechin, Myricetin, and Poncirin, were significantly accumulated in brown fibers but not in white fibers. Integrative analysis of the transcriptomic and metabolomic data demonstrated a possible regulatory network potentially regulating the pigment deposition, in which three MYB transcription factors promote the expression levels of flavonoid biosynthesis genes, thereby inducing the content increase in (-)-Epigallocatechin, Cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, Gallocatechin, and Myricetin in BCFs. Our findings provide new insights into the pigment deposition mechanism in BCFs and offer references for genetic engineering and breeding of colored cotton materials.

A review on textile solid waste management: Disposal and recycling.

Due to global population growth and living standards improvements, textile production and consumption are increased. Textile solid waste has become challenging issue for waste management authority. It is reported that textile materials are discarded daily, representing approximately 1.5% of the generated waste around the world. Over the past few decades, special attention has been given to the used clothes in all regions globally, which can reduce energy costs by 80% and also represent a source of raw materials economically profitable and environmentally responsible. This review article attempted to address different topics including: source of solid textile waste, environmental impact of textile waste as a result of massive consumption of clothing, textile waste management processes such as recycling, reuse of textile waste, landfill and incineration and energy recovery from textile waste. Narrative review with collection of recent quantitative information was carried to reflect the status of textile solid waste. In this article, the possibilities of bio-ethanol production from textile waste as valuable cellulosic raw material are investigated and presented. Results show that developing countries lack of systematic waste management. On another side of the globe, some countries are trying to recover energy these days by incineration. The heat and power that recovered from this process can be used instead of other energy sources. Throughout the incineration process, flue gases (CO2, H2O, O2, N2) are generated so it should be properly designed to avoid pollution. During energy recovery, different pre-treatment methods and different enzymatic hydrolysis parameters are recommended to be implied for better results.

Sustainable circular practices in the textile product life cycle: A comprehensive approach to environmental impact mitigation

The identification of environmental impacts through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has become a prevalent approach in recent years. However, the utilization of software tools for LCA analysis poses challenges, particularly in terms of cost, time consumption, and complexity, especially for industries operating in emerging economies. Despite these challenges, such industries are compelled to adhere to new policies and regulations when exporting products to European countries. This paper delves into the implementation of a comprehensive approach to identify the environmental impact of the product lifecycle in the textile industry, with a specific focus on recognizing circular economic potential to mitigate environmental impacts. The methodology employed includes value chain analysis, environmental impact identification, lifecycle thinking to pinpoint sustainability hotspots, prioritization of these hotspots, and identification of potential circular economic approaches to alleviate associated impacts. The paper presents a case study applying this approach to the textile industrial sector. By scrutinizing the intricacies of circular economy frameworks, the study provides insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with transitioning towards a more sustainable and circular textile industry. The findings aim to contribute valuable knowledge to global endeavors in achieving environmentally friendly practices within the textile and apparel sector.

Model For Small Enterprises Innovation Strategies Adaptation On Climate Change: Learn From Traditional Textile Sumba

All business organizations face various risks that might arise from changes in the external macro and micro environment. One of the significant changes in the external macro-environment is climate change. Climate change and its derivative impacts on business activities need to be managed properly by adapting innovations in the production process. Various studies on the impact of climate change on business activities are more focused on conventional measures to gauge business risks which are more responsive and focused on large companies. There are still few studies conducted on small and traditional businesses related to strategic actions in dealing with climate change, especially non-agricultural businesses. Therefore, this research aims to provide an overview of the adaptation strategy of production process innovation in the small-scale weaving industry in Sumba Island, Indonesia. The research conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with traditional textile producers in East Sumba. The main criterion in determining the respondents is the length of the business run by the traditional weaver. The study found that while most traditional weavers of Sumba textile rely on status quo technology, some strategies emerged to adapt to climate uncertainty in weaving production. The authors also identify three benchmarks of climate adaptation measures by the traditional weavers.

Circular economy reinforcement through molecular fabrication of textile wastes with microbial synthesized ZnO nanoparticles to have multifunctional properties

The fibrous wastes generated from the mills of textile production can be recycled and converted into high add-values products to be implemented in several applications. The current study aimed to employ commercial free cellulase enzyme to partially hydrolyze (activate) the polyester cotton blended (PET/C) fibrous wastes by creation functional groups such as OH and COOH on their surfaces. The activated fibrous wastes were then modified by coating with ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) biosynthesized by actinobacterial cultures free supernatant. The isolate was identified as Streptomyces pseudogriseolus with accession number of OR574241. The conditions that influence the actino-synthesis of ZnO-NPs were optimized and the product was characterized using spectroscopic vision, FTIR, XRD, TEM and SEM. The characteristic ZnO peaks were obviously observed by EDX analysis with 0.38 and 0.75% (wt%), respectively. TEM analyses proved the nanoscale of ZnO-NPs (5–15 nm) which was followed by cytotoxic evaluation for the produced NPs. Fortunately, the tested actino-ZnO-NPs didn’t have any cytotoxicity against human normal fibroblast cell line (BJ1), which means that the product can be safely used in a direct-contact with human skin. The treated PET/C blended waste fabrics coated with ZnO-NPs showed high antimicrobial activity and ultraviolet protection values after functionalization by cellulase. EDX analysis demonstrates the presence of Zn peaks on the coated fabrics compared with their absence in blank and control samples, while SEM images showed the formation of a thin layer of ZnO-NPs on the fabric surface. The obtained smart textile can be applied several needed sectors.

Efficiency analysis in knitted fabric portfolio management using DEA

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this paper is to develop a decision-making protocol to meet the new requirements in an atypical panorama, such as the economic instability, in the textile industry. Design/methodology/approach The methodology consists of analyzing technical criteria, costing parameters and efficiency scores of knitted fabrics using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) and classification and regression (C&R) trees models, together with statistical techniques. From these tools, it is possible to guide the portfolio management of these products in a textile company, identifying those that are inefficient and require immediate management measures. The results are expected to be replicated in other companies because the DEA and C&R trees analytical procedures are applicable to different portfolios, whether in the same industry or not. Findings The results allowed identifying inefficient textile products regarding the input-output relationship and the main technical reasons related to the most significant inefficiencies, such as fiber composition and knitted fabrics rapports used in manufacturing. Originality/value DEA and C&R trees, in combination with the study of textile technical parameters, can be fundamental to investigating the efficiency and profitability of industries in periods of economic instability or other adverse situations. In addition, it is noteworthy that there are practically no studies in the literature on DEA applied in the textile industry, indicating excellent development potential.

MXene coating on waste textiles for wearable electronics and thermal regulation

AbstractTransforming discarded textiles into more valuable products through upcycling offers a multi-pronged approach to alleviating textile industry-related pollution. In this study, we employed a facile approach to upcycling waste textile fabrics via MXene functionalization using a passive dip-coating process. The method is straightforward and versatile, producing a continuous coating on a variety of natural and synthetic textile substrates such as cotton, hemp, and nylon. Even with a minimal amount of MXene, the coated fabrics displayed sufficient conductivity, unlocking their potential for a multitude of applications including Joule heating, strain sensing, and infrared (IR) camouflage. The simplicity of this method provides an alternative utilization for fabric off-cuts and end-of-life garments in the production of multifunctional textiles for smart wearable clothing, potentially mitigating the expected scarcity of textile resources in the forthcoming decades. Graphical abstract This study employed a simple and versatile approach of upcycling waste textile fabrics via MXene functionalization through a passive dip coating process, meeting the demands for materials that are both sustainable and multi-functional.

Settling the argument: The contribution of use-wear studies to understanding artefact scatters in Neolithic Britain

Our understanding of the Neolithic of southern Britain has been largely based on the interpretation of monumental landscapes such as those around Stonehenge and Avebury. The remains of domestic structures dating to the Neolithic are rare, and when found, are often associated with small assemblages of material culture. The most common forms of settlement evidence are unstratified artefact scatters, which have little evidence of associated structural remains. As a result, our understanding of Neolithic settlement is poor. We have limited knowledge of what craft and subsistence activities were associated with them, and we do not know how quotidian practices were organised at a settlement or landscape level.Taking the West Kennet Avenue Occupation Site as an example, this paper will show how use-wear analysis can be combined with a detailed technological analysis to reveal details of the character and temporality of a Neolithic settlement. The use-wear analysis will focus on the assemblage of microdenticulates from the site. It further explores the character and potential contact material related to Polish 23, the distinctive use-polish that occurs on these tools, and shows how the combination of spatial analysis and use-wear analysis can separate different episodes of occupation in a scatter of unstratified artefacts. The results provide crucial insight into the history of settlement in the Avebury landscape and shed further light on the character of use of microdenticulates, supporting the argument that they were used for processing plant fibres for the production of textiles.

Integration of Waste Management in Textile Industries of India

The foundation of India's economic growth, the textile sector, has experienced unheard-of growth in recent decades, along with a rise in environmental issues brought on by significant waste generation. This comprehensive study sets out to look into and analyze how waste management techniques are incorporated into the rich history of the Indian textile sector. The study offers a thorough review of current waste management techniques, environmental impact evaluations, and creative solutions influencing the path toward sustainability, bridging the gap between qualitative and quantitative analysis. The introduction sets the context by outlining the mutually beneficial relationship between the expansion of the textile industry and its subsequent environmental load. The clothing industry has gained prominence due to the increase in demand for its products, however, a paradigm shift is required due to the waste generated by this industry. The study aims to perform a thorough analysis of waste management processes, conduct a quantitative assessment of the environmental implications, and investigate comprehensive strategies for sustainable waste management. The chapter on qualitative analysis explores the complex aspects of waste management in the textile industries of India. This section explains the nuances of waste generation at different phases of textile production by carefully examining existing methods, case studies, and industry dynamics. A thorough grasp of the qualitative landscape is revealed, encompassing everything from yarn and fabric waste to the difficulties presented by chemical residues and the disposal of end-of-life textiles. The importance of awareness and corporate responsibility in influencing waste management methods is also highlighted in this section. Case studies of top textile producers present creative approaches and offer insights into the possibilities of technological developments, cooperative efforts, and models of the circular economy. Nonetheless, difficulties ranging from technology constraints to cultural obstacles highlight how difficult it is to smoothly integrate sustainable practices throughout the sector. The chapter on integration strategies looks at potential directions that could change the way waste is managed in the textile industry in India. Models of the circular economy take center stage because they provide a comprehensive approach to production and disposal. Case studies from real-world applications highlight the revolutionary potential of upcycling and sophisticated recycling technology, offering insights into how these strategies could lessen the industry's environmental impact. Co-processing in cement kilns is a two-pronged method that solves waste disposal issues and produces useful resources. The potential for improved trash sorting and identification is demonstrated by the combination of artificial intelligence and data analytics, opening the door to increased process efficiency in waste management. The study's conclusion emphasizes that although the study has been helpful, the search for India's sustainable textile waste management is still an ongoing project. The industry is at a turning point in its evolution, and the factors pushing it in that direction will be sustained research and innovation leading the way toward a time when environmental stewardship and economic prosperity coexist together. Every thread woven into the fabric of the Indian textile industry offers a story of sustainability, adaptability, and responsible International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM) Volume: 08 Issue: 07 | July - 2024 SJIF Rating: 8.448 ISSN: 2582-3930 © 2024, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM36458 | Page 2 growth; therefore, the success of this journey will depend on the collective duty of industry stakeholders, policymakers, and consumers. Essentially, the goal of this extensive study is to serve as a compass for the Indian textile sector, offering a path forward to a time when environmental conservation and economic growth coexist peacefully.

Early evidence of an archaeological dyed textile using scale-insects: The Cave of Skulls, Israel

The color red has held significant historical symbolism and meaning throughout history and can be produced from various sources, including plants and animals. Some of the most luxurious red dyes were derived from various species of scale insects, particularly those of the Coccoidae superfamily. Today, advanced analytical methods allow to trace the origins of dyes even after thousands of years, providing insights into the technological capabilities of the ancient world as well as past economic and social conditions. In our research on textiles discovered in the Cave of Skulls in the Judean Desert, we conducted dye analyses using High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and identified one unique, red-dyed textile, which was dyed with scale insects. Our analysis enables to pinpoint the precise source of the red color in archaeological textiles down to the species level, and it can be determined with a high degree of certainty that the dye used was Kermes vermilio. Direct radiocarbon dating places this textile in the Middle Bronze Age (1954–1767 BCE), shedding light on the early use of scale-insect dyes in ancient textile production.

Islam Pada Masa Dinasti Fathimiyah

History has recorded that the Fatimid dynasty was an Islamic dynasty that was born in the X century and had very brilliant achievements in Islamic civilization. In fact, this dynasty was able to compete with the two great dynasties at that time, namely the Abbasid dynasty in Baghdad and the Umayyad dynasty in Spain. The glory of Islam during the Fatimid dynasty, was very developed, prosperous in the economic field, educational institutions were built including: the great mosque of al-Azhar which became a university educational institution in Cairo, Dar al-'Ilmi as a center for the study of Islamic sciences, astronomy and medicine . Likewise in the field of architecture, starting from magnificent gates, paintings, carvings, textile and ceramic products. All this shows the existence of the Fatimid dynasty at that time.

New Evidence of Traditional Japanese Dyeing Techniques: A Spectroscopic Investigation

The Japanese textile tradition is renowned for its intricate designs achieved through a variety of dyeing techniques, including kasuri, shibori, and paste-resist dyeing. These techniques are often combined within a single textile, resulting in exceptionally elaborate creations. Our paper delves into the technical aspects and complexities of these methods, highlighting the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation in Japanese textile production. Our scientific endeavour focused on some textiles dating between the 19th and 20th centuries and belonging to the Montgomery Collection of Japanese folk art. Employing non-invasive techniques such as visible reflectance spectroscopy and ER-FTIR spectroscopy, we uncovered key insights into the materials and methods utilized in the creation of these textiles. Our analysis revealed a diverse array of pigments and dyes, including plant-derived, inorganic, and synthetic variants. These findings illuminate the cultural syncretism between traditional Japanese practices and the adoption of new materials from the West, underscoring the dynamic nature of textile production in Japan. Furthermore, ER-FTIR spectroscopy elucidated the predominant use of cotton as the primary fibre in the textiles, aligning with historical records of Japan’s role as a major producer of cotton yarn. Analysis of white areas within the textiles revealed evidence of resist-paste dyeing techniques, particularly tsutsugaki and katazome, through the absence of dye penetration and the characteristic appearance of white lines. Confirmation of indigo dyeing techniques (aizome) was achieved through ER-FTIR spectroscopy, providing reliable identification of indigo and Prussian blue in various shades of blue present in the textiles. Additionally, the detection of Western-derived dyeing method (utsushi-yūzen) and free-hand painting (kaki-e), offers insights into the diversity of dyeing practices employed by Japanese artisans. The presence of proteinaceous materials and synthetic dyes observed in some textiles has implications for conservation practices, suggesting the need for tailored approaches to ensure the preservation of these culturally significant artifacts. Overall, these scientific results shed new light on the materials, techniques, and cultural contexts underlying Japanese textile production, advancing our understanding of this rich artistic heritage and informing future research endeavours in textile science and conservation.

SUSTAINABILITY IN TEXTILES: A CRITICAL REVIEW OF ECO – FRIENDLY PRACTICES AND MATERIALS

Sustainability in textiles, focusing on eco-friendly practices and materials. The paper examines the multifaceted approaches adopted by the fashion industry to mitigate environmental impact and promote ethical production. It scrutinizes the adoption of eco-conscious practices, such as utilizing organic fibers, recycled materials, and innovative biodegradable textiles. Through an analytical lens, the review evaluates the efficacy of these eco-friendly measures in reducing the industry's carbon footprint, minimizing waste, and conserving natural resources. It delves into the challenges faced in the widespread adoption of sustainable practices, considering issues related to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and consumer adoption. Further more, the review assesses the social and ethical dimensions of sustainable fashion, emphasizing fair labor practices, supply chain transparency, and the empowerment of communities involved in textile production. Drawing upon a comprehensive analysis of scholarly articles, industry reports, and case studies, this review critically examines the progress, limitations, and future prospects of sustainability in fashion and textiles, providing insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in advancing eco-friendly practices within the industry.

Environmentally sound recycling of agricultural waste: A sustainable approach to develop bio-functional art textile

The agricultural processing industry produces a large amount of waste on a global scale whose disposal is simultaneously a nuisance and of special interest. The by-products are rich in bioactive phytoconstituents that might be beneficial to the production of bio-functional textiles. The present work uses agricultural wastes for the eco-friendly dyeing of woolen yarns. Response surface methodology based on 23- Central Composite Design was used to design experiments, evaluate the main dyeing parameters, develop efficient mathematical models to predict the dyeing process, and optimize the procedure. The quadratic regression models developed were found to be statistically significant using ANOVA, with R2 -value of 0.9734 and 0.9820 for color strength and lightness responses, respectively. Also, eye-soothing tone and hues with a good resistance to durability (4–5) and light (4) were achieved. The banana shell and gallnut bio-mordants improved UV protection by up to 25.33% and 59.79%, respectively. Generally speaking, the results showed that C. Oblonga leaf as well as gallnut and banana shells could be used as whole crop products in an ecologically sound textile dyeing process through a sustainable approach and that the proposed innovative application might serve as an attractive procedure for recycling and green waste management.

The problem of anthropogenic microfibres in karst systems: Assessment of water and submerged sediments

A new worrying micropollutant threathens natural environments: the microfibres (MFs). Natural, regenerated and synthetic MFs have been detected in different environments, as well as in organisms. While synthetic MFs are generally detected in microplastic analyses, natural and regenerated MFs are not taken into account, or are wrongly considered plastics. They are generally considered biodegradable even if their degradation processes in ecosystems are poorly known. Their potential faster degradation could release toxic compounds, and their characteristics could led to a long-term accumulation in the environment. Understanding their dangerousness and the possible impact they could have on ecosystems is fundamental for environment conservation. We collected and investigated water and submerged sediment samples in different caves and springs of the Classical Karst Region (NE Italy), rich in protected habitats and species. MFs were analysed via microscopy and spectroscopy. MFs were found in all samples, highlighting pollution in surface and subterranean habitats of the karst system. MF concentration was higher in submerged sediments respect to waters, highlighting an accumulation of MFs over time. Big microfibres were less abundant, and MF amount increased with the decrease in the considered size. More than 80% of fibres were fluorescent under UV light. Fluorescent MFs were especially transparent, while non-fluorescent ones were mainly black and blue. Most MFs were cellulosic, and synthetic MFs represent only 15–22%, highlighting a significant gap between the MF composition detected in natural environments and the global production of synthetic textiles in recent times. Synthetic MFs were more abundant in waters. Our results improve the knowledge on micropollutants in karst environments, laying the foundations for future research. MF pollution monitoring in karst areas must become a priority for species protection, habitat conservation, and waters management, improving analyses on a larger number of aquatic environments, taking into account the ecological connections between surface and subterranean habitats.

Subjective Effects of Using a Passive Upper Limb Exoskeleton for Industrial Textile Workers

Industrial wool textile production exposes workers mainly to the biomechanical loading of the shoulder joint. In this work context, which is characterized by poor machine ergonomics, exposure to biomechanical risk factors, and variable work organization, exoskeletons could facilitate work processes or could be a valuable means to protect workers from overuse injuries. Field evaluation is essential to verify the suitability of specific devices and their acceptance by users. As part of a pilot study, we examined the short-term subjective effects of a passive Arm-Support Exoskeleton (ASE) on workers performing repetitive overhead tasks. In a textile factory, eight workers participated in the study, answering questionnaires after carrying out a work session with (ASE) and without an exoskeleton (FREE). Participants had been using the Paexo exoskeleton for 4.2±5.8 months (min 0–max 12). Subjective evaluations were collected regarding the workload (NASA-TLX) and relief (Borg’s CR10 scale) obtained from the use of the exoskeleton, satisfaction (Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST)), usability (System Usability Scale (SUS)), and opinions on the ergonomics of the device (Ergonomics questionnaire). Workers reported a high workload (NASA 7.2±1.0) and assessed a 46% reduction in effort on the CR10 in ASE conditions compared to FREE. They expressed high satisfaction with most characteristics of the ASE (100% satisfied with durability and effectiveness), high level of usability (62% of scores above 80, out of a maximum score of 100), and ergonomics of the device (88±12, out of a maximum score of 110). In addition to the objective effects (electromyography (EMG) reduction) already demonstrated in a previous publication, these qualitative results demonstrate a positive perception by textile workers regarding the effectiveness, usability, and suitability of the exoskeleton. The adoption of ASE in the textile industry appears beneficial in the short term, but the impact associated with individual variables and long-term effects remains to be explored.

Comprehensive analysis of social subcategories throughout life cycle assessment approach for the textile industry

Abstract Purpose While the environmental and economic aspects of sustainability have been extensively studied, social sustainability has been largely neglected and necessitates a thorough investigation. The study examines the intricate nature of social impact assessments, considering the substantial significance of the textile industry in the global economy and its wide-ranging social implications. This study comprehensively examines critical social subcategories used in the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology to highlight the social sustainability of the textile sector. The objective of the study is to enhance and optimize the subcategories proposed by UNEP/SETAC for social LCA by examining, expanding, and adapting them specifically to the textile industry, offering a more focused and sector-specific viewpoint on key metrics. Methods The study examines its use in textile production and distribution by first carefully evaluating the subcategories established by UNEP/SETAC for social LCA. A systematic assessment of positive and negative social impacts throughout the entire supply chain is examined through global standards, textile-specific standards, and literature. Analysis of semi-structured stakeholder interviews and a comprehensive literature review reveals important social subcategories, some of which go beyond the S-LCA guidelines. Results New social metrics, including quality, women’s rights, gender pay gap, collaboration with NGOs, academic research, circularity implementation, and environmental issues, were formulated from stakeholders’ perspectives, tailored specifically for the textile sector. Conclusions The results of the study aim to promote a socially sustainable textile industry by guiding stakeholders to make informed decisions and adopt methods that prioritize social responsibility as well as environmental and economic factors.

Coloration and functionalization of silk fabric based on silver nanoparticles green synthesized from chitosan

This research develops a novel route for the coloration of silk fabric with green synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using chitosan as a natural eco-friendly reducing agent. The formation of AgNPs was characterized by the appearance of LSPR absorption peak at 414–448 nm. Based on a TEM image of spherical particles dominated at a particle size between 5 and 10 nm. The zeta potential shows that the AgNPs synthesized from the chitosan are highly stable. The deposition of AgNPs on the silk fabric surface was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The coloration and fastness properties of fabric were found to be significantly improved, a result related to the surface plasmon resonance of AgNPs. The antibacterial properties of the fabric were also found to be excellent, as a more than 87% bacterial reduction was noticed even after 20 washing cycles. Overall, this silk coloration using green nanoparticles can contribute to the low-cost production of multifunctional textiles.

Causal relationships of health risk of air pollution in industrial area

Air contamination is one of the serious problems for the environment and the health of society. Air contamination risk assessment, health effects assessment tools are used to identify the place and time of public health effects and risk prevention strategies to reduce negative health effects. Considering that there may be a relationship between factors affecting risk, in this study, interactions between them are investigated using Fuzzy Decision Test and Experimental Evaluation Method (fuzzy DEMATEL). The cause of the health air contamination risk in an industrial area are the activity of industrial complexes and port (D+R=45.98, D-R=2.09) and the presence of hydrogen sulfide (46.82, 2.61), benzene (50.87, 2.87), sulfur dioxide (43.87, 4.32) and PM10 (53.51, 5.63) and the effects of these factors will affect the amount of carbon monoxide (39.56, -4.47), ozone (38.80, -4.20), nitrogen dioxide (50.33, -1.62) and PM2.5 (44.18, -1.26). Hospitals and nursing homes (49.01, -2.58), schools (50.99, -0.59), storage and industrial facilities, roads (45.72, -0.59), urban core (51.38, -0.55) and Natural zones, agriculture and waterways (48.86, -0.17) are affected by other factors. Population density is also affected by cause factors. Population density has a two-way relationship with PM2.5. The main human and social factors include GDP per capita and urbanization rate. Hydrogen sulfide has a one-way relationship with population density. People who work in certain industries may be exposed to higher amounts of hydrogen sulfide than the general population. These industries include the production of rayon textiles, pulp and paper factories, oil and natural gas drilling operations, and wastewater treatment plants. Therefore, by controlling the activity of industrial complexes, port and the amounts of hydrogen sulfide, benzene, sulfur dioxide and PM10 in the ambient air can be prevented from the effects after that.

German minority in urban space of a textile manufacturing centre: the case of 19th century city of Łódź

German settlement in Poland has been the subject of numerous studies. The causes and determinants of migratory movements have been discussed extensively, while little attention has been paid to the spatial aspects of the phenomenon. The aim of this study, which is part of geographical and historical research, is to determine the size of the influx of migrants of German nationality into the rapidly developing textile production centre of Łódź in the 19th century, as well as the geographical origins and distribution of this nationality group in the urban space. These considerations are complemented by the identification of key issues related to the social integration and assimilation processes of the German minority. In the first half of the 19th century, the influx of skilled labour, almost entirely recruited from the German population, conditioned the development of the textile industry in Łódź. It also had a key influence on the demographic development of Łódź, which soon became the largest centre of textile production in Poland. In subsequent decades, there was a tendency among German immigrants towards separation in the sphere of professional and social activities, but already by the end of the 19th century the German community settled in Łódź was diverse in terms of the sense of nationality. In addition to a certain proportion of the immigrants who were already Polonised, there were persons declaring German nationality, as well as those undecided about the issue.