ceramic surface modification of textiles by atomic layer deposition

24 Nanoscale ceramic surface modification of textiles by atomic layer deposition R ecent opportunities to merge traditional inorganic materials processing with organic fibrous textiles are creating new possibilities in electrical, optical and mechanical applications for textiles. Textiles are made of low-cost natural or synthetic fibers and have unique flexibility, strength and durability with a large accessible surface area. Herein we describe inorganic surface modification techniques that are applicable to the textile industry and how these ceramic modifications could extend the range of textile applications. First, it is important to distinguish between traditional versus nontraditional textile materials. Traditional textiles most often are woven or knitted structures and commonly used for clothing and many durable fabrics. The processes for their manufacture can be slow, about 1 to 2 meters per minute. Nonwoven fabrics, typically referred to as nontraditional textiles, have shown increasing adaptability for high speed of production, up to 1,000 meters per minute.1 Nonwovens extend the strength, flexibility, breathability, optical appearance and feel of textiles. They can be engineered for low-cost, customizeable solutions, which has expanded markets for them into an untold number of durable and disposable products, including carpet backing, personal care materials, air and water filtration, automotive interiors and cleaning wipes. Nonwoven processes are modified easily to alter fiber diameter, density and orientation, and, therefore, are used for many technical textile products (Figure 1). Thus, the nonwovens sector provides broad opportunities for innovation in the textiles industry.