3. Functionalization of textiles using nanotechnology
3.1. Functional membranes of protective properties
Thermophysiological comfort while wearing such clothing is achieved by using a special membrane, eg Gore Tex®, Pro-line®, Sympatex® and others.
Characteristics of membrane:
- Micropore diameter - 0.2 μm (bacteria are about 4 times larger)
- They are resistant to chemicals and UV radiation, non-combustible, thermally stable between -250 ° C to + 280 ° C, biocompatible and degradable.
In commercial products, poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (PTFE) (W. L. Gore) developed an antistatic membrane that consisted of electrically conductive NPs anchored in the fibrils of the membrane. This membrane limited the formation of isolated chargeable areas and voltage peaks. This approach is advantageous over other antistatic agents since it does not wash off during laundry.