Emerging techniques for functional finishing of textiles

Miniaturization to the micro and nanometer scale has been one of the most important trends in science and technology over the last several years. This trend also holds immense potential for application in the field of textile finishing. Several techniques have now become available which can be used to produce uniform films of functional materials on textiles which can offer functionalities that are hitherto unknown in textile processing. This paper discusses some such cutting edge technologies which have the potential to revolutionalise the field of textile finishing in the years to come. These include immobilization of enzymes on textile substrates, layer by layer assemblies, development of nanocoatings and use of plasma for nano level finish application. These processes add functionality with minimum effect on the strength, feel, handle or breathability of textiles. Some of these technologies have been tested and validated at lab scale, but most are still in research stages. As advances and developments in these areas of finishing continue to unfold, they will increasingly be used to produce smart, intelligent and interactive clothing of the future.