Today, technical fabrics have transcended the world of conventional textiles to become innovative solutions applied to various industrial sectors. Thanks to advances in technology and materials, these technical fabrics have revolutionized industries such as automotive, construction, health and furniture. But what exactly are technical fabrics and what are their applications? In this article, we will explore their evolution, manufacturing processes, and the impact they have on modern society.
What are technical fabrics?
Unlike traditional textiles, whose use focuses on clothing and decoration, technical fabrics are designed to fulfill specific functions, such as resistance to chemical agents, thermal insulation or impact protection. Advanced technologies are used to manufacture them to improve their properties and adapt them to different environments.
Means of manufacture of technical fabrics
Technical fabrics can be obtained through various processes, each of them designed to optimize their characteristics according to their final application:
- Conventional flat textile techniques: Traditional weaving and knitting methods are used.
- Novel nonwovens technologies: They allow highly specialized materials to be created without the need to spin or weave fibers.
- Complementary processes: Such as impregnation, coating and lamination, which improve the mechanical and functional properties of technical fabrics.
Evolution of fibres and filaments in technical fabrics
The materials used in technical fabrics have evolved significantly throughout history. They can be classified into three broad categories:
Natural fibres
Historically, humans have used natural fibers such as wool, linen, jute, and silk to make textiles. Although these fibers are still popular, biotechnology has allowed them to be modified to improve their properties, such as creating cotton in natural colors without the need for dyes.
Man-made fibres and filaments
They are those obtained from natural raw materials, but require chemical processes for their manufacture. Examples of man-made fibers include:
- Viscose rayon: Silk-like softness and shine.
- Glass: Used in structural reinforcements and insulation.
- Carbon: Applied in textiles for the aeronautical and sports industry.
Synthetic fibers and filaments
They are created in the laboratory and have been a revolution in the technical fabrics sector since the mid-twentieth century. These include:
- Nylon: High strength and flexibility.
- Polyester: Versatility and durability.
- Acrylic: Thermal properties and wear resistance.
- Aramids: Used in protective textiles such as bulletproof vests.
- Nanofibers: Designed using nanotechnology for advanced applications in medicine and filtration.
Applications of technical fabrics in the 21st century
The versatility of technical fabrics has allowed them to be implemented in numerous industrial sectors, transforming the way products and solutions are developed.
Furniture and upholstery industry
Materials such as synthetic leather and flexible PVC have revolutionized furniture manufacturing, providing sustainable, durable, and easy-to-maintain options.
Textile architecture
Technical fabrics have enabled the creation of flexible structures that are resistant to extreme weather conditions, such as large tents, stadium roofs and urban furnishing elements.
Automotive & Transportation
From seat coverings to textiles with flame retardant and abrasion-resistant properties, technical fabrics have improved safety and comfort in the transport sector.
Medicine and health
Nonwovens play a fundamental role in the manufacture of masks, medical gowns, bandages and hygiene products, contributing to improving health safety standards.
Aerospace & Defense
Thanks to materials 15 times stronger than steel, technical fabrics have optimised the manufacture of astronaut clothing, protective equipment and aircraft components.
Innovation and the future of technical fabrics
Technical fabrics have revolutionized the textile industry, expanding their applications beyond fashion and decoration. Its continuous development and innovation in materials have allowed the creation of solutions with a high added value for society. Companies such as Expafol are leading this revolution by offering advanced and flexible materials that meet the needs of different sectors. In the future, technical fabrics will continue to evolve, opening up new possibilities for science, technology and industry.
