Functionalization and optimization of smart nanotextiles for multifunctional applications

Purpose The purpose of this study is to critically discuss recent advances in smart/intelligent and functionalized textiles and emerging multifunctional applications. Design/methodology/approach Review of Google scholar indexed research papers on the subject matter. Findings Smart or intelligent and functional nanotextiles refer to a set of nanotechnologically affiliated innovative materials capable of being applied in a versatile range of segments including sports, transportation, energy harvesting communication, biomedicine (regenerative medicine, controlled drug releasing; health monitoring, as well as wound caring), fashion, filtration, protection (aerospace, military, marine, health, safety and environment), civil and geotechnical engineering, and so on, in addition to technical and wearable sectors. Research limitations/implications Smart or intelligent textiles differ from functional textiles. Whereas functionalized textiles offer specific functionality relative to inclusion of material, finishing, and so on, smart textiles are capable of reacting post data interpretation garnered through stimuli because of their inherent nature. Smart textiles are different when compared with conventional textiles due to their inherent sensitivity and responsivity to their surroundings ascribed to their capability of sensing and reacting to environmentally affiliated parameters or stimuli relative to thermally, mechanically, electrically, magnetically and other peculiarly affiliated conditions. Practical implications While textiles offer a smooth set-up for smart functionalities, nanotechnology ensures that the beneficial features of the textile architecture are not impeded by the smartly functioning parts. Social implications Smart/intelligent textiles are applied in a versatile range of segments including sports, transportation, energy harvesting communication, biomedicine (regenerative medicine, controlled drug releasing; health monitoring, as well as wound caring), fashion, filtration, protection (aerospace, military, marine, health, safety and environment), civil and geotechnical engineering, and so on, in addition to technical and wearable sectors. Originality/value Emerging evolution in smart and functional textiles entails the emergence of nanotechnology and nano-engineering as applied to nanotextiles. The prospects of nanotechnology in textiles depict a route of developing products inculcating multi-functional features on textile materials.