Flame-retardant ammonium polyphosphate/MXene decorated carbon foam materials as polysulfide traps for fire-safe and stable lithium-sulfur batteries

Lithium-sulfur(Li-S)batteries are one of the most promising modern-day energy supply systems because of their high theoretical energy density and low cost.However,the development of high-energy density Li-S batteries with high loading of flammable sulfur faces the challenges of electrochemical performance degradation owing to the shuttle effect and safety issues related to fire or explosion accidents.In this work,we report a three-dimensional(3D)conductive nitrogen-doped carbon foam supported electrostatic self-assembled MXene-ammonium polyphosphate(NCF-MXene-APP)layer as a heat-resistant,thermally-insulated,flame-retardant,and freestanding host for Li-S batteries with a facile and costeffective synthesis method.Consequently,through the use of NCF-MXene-APP hosts that strongly anchor polysulfides,the Li-S batteries demonstrate outstanding electrochemical properties,including a high initial discharge capacity of 1191.6 mA h g^(-1),excellent rate capacity of 755.0 mA h g^(-1)at 1 C,and long-term cycling stability with an extremely low-capacity decay rate of 0.12%per cycle at 2 C.More importantly,these batteries can continue to operate reliably under high temperature or flame attack conditions.Thus,this study provides valuable insights into the design of safe high-performance Li-S batteries.

Leakage Proof,Flame-Retardant,and Electromagnetic Shield Wood Morphology Genetic Composite Phase Change Materials for Solar Thermal Energy Harvesting

Phase change materials(PCMs)offer a promising solution to address the challenges posed by intermittency and fluctuations in solar thermal utilization.However,for organic solid-liquid PCMs,issues such as leakage,low thermal conductivity,lack of efficient solar-thermal media,and flamma-bility have constrained their broad applications.Herein,we present an innova-tive class of versatile composite phase change materials(CPCMs)developed through a facile and environmentally friendly synthesis approach,leveraging the inherent anisotropy and unidirectional porosity of wood aerogel(nanowood)to support polyethylene glycol(PEG).The wood modification process involves the incorporation of phytic acid(PA)and MXene hybrid structure through an evaporation-induced assembly method,which could impart non-leaking PEG filling while concurrently facilitating thermal conduction,light absorption,and flame-retardant.Consequently,the as-prepared wood-based CPCMs showcase enhanced thermal conductivity(0.82 W m^(-1)K^(-1),about 4.6 times than PEG)as well as high latent heat of 135.5 kJ kg^(-1)(91.5%encapsula-tion)with thermal durability and stability throughout at least 200 heating and cooling cycles,featuring dramatic solar-thermal conversion efficiency up to 98.58%.In addition,with the synergistic effect of phytic acid and MXene,the flame-retardant performance of the CPCMs has been significantly enhanced,showing a self-extinguishing behavior.Moreover,the excellent electromagnetic shielding of 44.45 dB was endowed to the CPCMs,relieving contemporary health hazards associated with electromagnetic waves.Overall,we capitalize on the exquisite wood cell structure with unidirectional transport inherent in the development of multifunctional CPCMs,showcasing the operational principle through a proof-of-concept prototype system.

Thermally Conductive and UV-EMI Shielding Electronic Textiles for Unrestricted and Multifaceted Health Monitoring

Skin-attachable electronics have garnered considerable research attention in health monitoring and artificial intelligence domains,whereas susceptibility to elec-tromagnetic interference(EMI),heat accumulation issues,and ultraviolet(UV)-induced aging problems pose significant constraints on their potential applications.Here,an ultra-elas-tic,highly breathable,and thermal-comfortable epidermal sensor with exceptional UV-EMI shielding performance and remarkable thermal conductivity is developed for high-fidelity monitoring of multiple human electrophysiological signals.Via filling the elastomeric microfibers with thermally conductive boron nitride nanoparticles and bridging the insulating fiber interfaces by plating Ag nanoparticles(NPs),an interwoven thermal con-ducting fiber network(0.72 W m^(-1) K^(-1))is constructed benefiting from the seamless thermal interfaces,facilitating unimpeded heat dissipation for comfort skin wearing.More excitingly,the elastomeric fiber substrates simultaneously achieve outstanding UV protection(UPF=143.1)and EMI shielding(SET>65,X-band)capabilities owing to the high electrical conductivity and surface plasmon resonance of Ag NPs.Furthermore,an electronic textile prepared by printing liquid metal on the UV-EMI shielding and thermally conductive nonwoven textile is finally utilized as an advanced epidermal sensor,which succeeds in monitoring different electrophysiological signals under vigorous electromagnetic interference.This research paves the way for developing protective and environmentally adaptive epidermal electronics for next-generation health regulation.

Contextualized Textiles Chinese anthropologist explores the fabric of Malay culture

Yi Village in Kelantan State,Malaysia,is known for its batik production.Batik is a wax-dyed fabric that evolved from sarong garments.To make batik,artisans first use melted wax to draw various lines and patterns on white or pre-dyed fabric,then fill in different colors between the lines.Then,the fabric is placed under the sun to dry.

The Use of Smart Textiles in the Healthcare Space: Towards an Improvement of the User-Patient Experience

This article explores the role of smart textiles in transforming healthcare environments into spaces that prioritize patient well-being. We will examine the advantages of smart textiles in healthcare settings, such as the real-time monitoring of vital signs through connected clothing. Additionally, we will introduce metadesign as a design approach that considers the interactions between users, healthcare environments, and technologies to create fulfilling experiences. By combining the advanced features of smart textiles with a patient-centered metadesign approach, it becomes possible to create care spaces that cater to patient needs. The objective of this article is to present the integration of metadesign in the design of smart textiles as a process aimed at enhancing the quality of the patient user experience. In this process, we will emphasize the collaborative approach and embrace technological innovation to harness the potential for ongoing improvement and provide users with high-quality experiences. Lastly, we will underscore the significance of adopting a multidimensional approach to evaluate the impact of smart textiles on the patient user experience.

Shaoxing Yixing(YETCO):Leader in natural linen textiles

Shaoxing Yixing Textiles Co.,Ltd(also called YETCO),since its establishment in 1998,has been the leading company in the field of linen and linen blended fabrics as well as all kinds of embroidery fabrics.The company not only focuses on product development and production,but also actively expands its international market,selling its exquisite products to Europe,America,Southeast Asia and other places.With excellent business reputation,quality service,novel patterns and high-quality products,Shaoxing Yixing Textiles has won wide recognization from customers all over the world.

Tomorrow's Textiles: 2024 Fabric trends to know

Looking ahead to 2024,the textile industry is poised for exciting developments as sustainable innovation,diverse color palettes,and a fusion of luxury and comfort take center stage.In this article,we delve into the upcoming fabric trends,offering a roadmap for navigating the evolving fabric landscape.From eco-conscious materials to global design influences,we explore the trends that will shape creative projects with style and responsibility.

Innovations in hometech textiles:Enhancing comfort,sustainability,and functionality

The hometech textiles market encompasses a wide range of textile products designed to enhance comfort,functionality,and sustainability within residential and commercial environments.These textiles integrate innovative technologies,materials,and design elements to offer performance-driven solutions for various applications such as home furnishings,bedding,upholstery,window treatments,and floor coverings,as per report by Persistence Market Research.Hometech textiles combine aesthetics with functionality,providing benefits such as moisture management,temperature regulation,antimicrobial properties,and sound absorption.The market caters to consumer preferences for stylish,eco-friendly,and technologically advanced textiles that enhance living spaces and promote well-being.

Technical textiles set to hit USD 331.8 billion worldwide by 2032

Technical textiles are also known as engineered products which has definite functionality and durability.This is a fastgrowing sub-segment in the apparel market.Taking cognisance of technological advancements,many countries are aligning their industries to accommodate technical textiles.

The Advancements of Medical Textiles:A Patent Perspective

The healthcare sector is advancing in many aspects,including smart devices,surgical robots,AR/VR consultation,etc.Medical textiles are one such aspect where we have observed tremendous growth in innovation.Before the pandemic,the CAGR of patent filing in medical textiles was~12.5%.Postpandemic,it increased to 42.6%.From the patent publishing data,we saw that the US,Japan,India,and Germany are the top four countries in which innovations in medical textiles are on the rise.The extent of the growth is due to the constant improvements and innovations in both textile technology and medical materials.

Recent Advances and Challenges Toward Application of Fibers and Textiles in Integrated Photovoltaic Energy Storage Devices

Flexible microelectronic devices have seen an increasing trend toward development of miniaturized,portable,and integrated devices as wearable electronics which have the requirement for being light weight,small in dimension,and suppleness.Traditional three-dimensional(3D)and two-dimensional(2D)electronics gadgets fail to effectively comply with these necessities owing to their stiffness and large weights.Investigations have come up with a new family of one-dimensional(1D)flexible and fiber-based electronic devices(FBEDs)comprising power storage,energy-scavenging,implantable sensing,and flexible displays gadgets.However,development and manufacturing are still a challenge owing to their small radius,flexibility,low weight,weave ability and integration in textile electronics.This paper will provide a detailed review on the importance of substrates in electronic devices,intrinsic property requirements,fabrication classification and applications in energy harvesting,energy storage and other flexible electronic devices.Fiber-and textile-based electronic devices for bulk/scalable fabrications,encapsulation,and testing are reviewed and presented future research ideas to enhance the commercialization of these fiber-based electronics devices.

Flame-retardant oligomeric electrolyte additive for self-extinguishing and highly-stable lithium-ion batteries:Beyond small molecules

Preparing both safe and high-performance lithium-ion batteries(LIBs) based on commonly used commercial electrolytes is highly desirable,yet challenging.To overcome the poor compatibility of conventional small-molecular flame-retardants as electrolyte additives for safe LIBs with graphite anodes,in this study,we propose and design a novel low-cost flame-retardant oligomer that achieves an accurate and complete reconciliation of fire safety and electrochemical performance in LIBs.Owing to the integration of phosphonate units and polyethylene glycol(PEG) chains,this oligomer,which is a phosphonatecontaining PEG-based oligomer(PPO),not only endows commercial electrolytes with excellent flame retardancy but also helps stabilize the electrodes and Li-ion migration.Specifically,adding 15 wt% of PPO can reduce 70% of the self-extinguishing time and 54% of total heat release for commercial electrolytes.Moreover,LiFePO_(4)/lithium and graphite/lithium cells as well as LiFePO_(4)/graphite pouch full cells exhibit good long-term cycling stability.

In vitro study on the transmission of multidrug-resistant bacteria from textiles to pig skin

BACKGROUND The survival of microorganisms on textiles and specifically on healthcare profes-sionals’(HCP)attire has been demonstrated in several studies.The ability of microorganisms to adhere and remain on textiles for up to hours or days raises questions as to their possible role in transmission from textile to skin via HCP to patients.AIM To evaluate the presence,survival and transmission of different multidrug-resistant bacteria(MDRB)from HCP attire onto skin.METHODS Three MDRB[methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA);vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium(VRE);carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae,(CRKP)]were inoculated on textiles from scrubs(60%cotton-40%polyester)and white coat(100%cotton)at concentrations of 108 colony-forming units(CFU),105 CFU,and 103 CFU per mL.The inoculation of swatches was divided in time intervals of 1 min,5 min,15 min,30 min,1 h,2 h,3 h,4 h,5 h,and 6 h.At the end of each period,textiles were imprinted onto pig skins and each skin square was inverted onto three different selective chromogenic media.Growth from the pig skin squares was recorded for the 3 MDRB at the three above concentrations,for the whole length of the 6-h experiment.RESULTS MRSA was recovered from pig skins at all concentrations for the whole duration of the 6-h study.VRE was recovered from the concentration of 108 CFU/mL for 6 h and from 105 CFU/mL for up to 3 h,while showing no growth at 103 CFU/mL.CRKP was recovered from 108 CFU/mL for 6 h,up to 30 min from 105 CFU/mL and for 1 min from the concentration of 103 CFU/mL.CONCLUSION Evidence from the current study shows that MRSA can persist on textiles and transmit to skin for 6 h even at low concentrations.The fact that all MDRB can be sustained and transferred to skin even at lower concentrations,supports that textiles are implicated as vectors of bacterial spread.

A personalized electronic textile for ultrasensitive pressure sensing enabled by biocompatible MXene/ PEDOT:PSS composite

Flexible,breathable,and highly sensitive pressure sensors have increasingly become a focal point of interest due to their pivotal role in healthcare monitoring,advanced electronic skin applications,and disease diagnosis.However,traditional methods,involving elastomer film-based substrates or encapsulation techniques,often fall short due to mechanical mismatches,discomfort,lack of breathability,and limitations in sensing abilities.Consequently,there is a pressing need,yet it remains a significant challenge to create pressure sensors that are not only highly breathable,flexible,and comfortable but also sensitive,durable,and biocompatible.Herein,we present a biocompatible and breathable fabric-based pressure sensor,using nonwoven fabrics as both the sensing electrode(coated with MXene/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate[PEDOT:PSS])and the interdigitated electrode(printed with MXene pattern)via a scalable spray-coating and screen-coating technique.The resultant device exhibits commendable air permeability,biocompatibility,and pressure sensing performance,including a remarkable sensitivity(754.5 kPa^(−1)),rapid response/recovery time(180/110 ms),and robust cycling stability.Furthermore,the integration of PEDOT:PSS plays a crucial role in protecting the MXene nanosheets from oxidation,significantly enhancing the device's long-term durability.These outstanding features make this sensor highly suitable for applications in fullrange human activities detection and disease diagnosis.Our study underscores the promising future of flexible pressure sensors in the realm of intelligent wearable electronics,setting a new benchmark for the industry.

Air Fiber Washer, the first industrial air system designed to reduce microfiber shedding in textiles

Air Fiber Washer extracts up to 60% of microfibers during garment manufacturing by using dynamic airflow in combination with microfiltration to capture microfibers.Each industrial Air Fiber Washer machine will allow for the collection of up to 325 kg of microfibers per year for potential repurposing.This technology will be shared throughout the industry without any as part of both companies'commitment to mitigate the release of microfibers.

Jingwei textile machinery: Make textiles more creative

Since its establishment in 1951,Jingwei Intelligent Textile Machinery Co.,Ltd.(hereinafter referred to as Jingwei Textile Machinery)focuses on the research and development,production and sales of textile machinery,whose products cover spinning,weaving,twisting,chemical fiber machinery and special parts of spinning machine.It is the only provider of complete solutions for the whole process of spinning in China.The intelligent spinning system and digital twisting system of the whole process of cotton spinning have reached the world-class level.

US textiles & apparel imports dropped 13% to $ 17.5 bn in Jan-Feb

US imports of textiles and apparel have continued to de­crease in value terms,falling by 13.01 per cent to$17.554 billion in the first two months of 2023,compared to$20.179 billion during the same period in 2022.China is still the largest supplier of textiles and clothing to the United States,accounting for 24%of the market,followed by Vietnam,accounting for 14.97%.

Can waste textiles be completely transformed into fibres?

The advancement and novel technologies in materials science have been steadily growing toward adopting ethical practices.To reduce the stress on the environment the producers integrate novel materials to extend traditional functionality.They develop modern fibers that are eco-friendly,light,resilient,mechanically flexible,and easy to process.Moreover,novel fabrics are acquiring unique properties such as sensory capabilities,electrical conductivity,and data transmission.Cloths with characteristics such as hydrophobic cotton,plant-based textiles,antimicrobial fabrics,and shape memory polymers show versatility in textile innovations.Overall,these textile innovations provide sustainable alternatives,which are commercially viable and suitable for large-scale production.

Textile dyeing wastewater negatively influences the hematological profile and reproductive health of male Swiss albino mice

Objective:To determine the effects of textile dyeing industrial wastewater on the hematological parameters and reproductive health including histoarchitecture of male gonad(testes)of mice.Methods:Twenty-four Swiss albino mice at 4-weeks old were divided into four groups(n=6 per group).Mice of group 1 supplied with normal drinking water were served as the control group.Mice of group 2,3 and 4 were supplied normal drinking water mixed with textile dyeing wastewater at 5%,10% and 20% concentration,respectively.After completing 24 weeks of treatment,different hematological profile,weight of testes,gonadosomatic index(GSI),sperm concentration and morphology were measured.Moreover,histopathological changes in testes were examined.Results:Hematocrit value and hemoglobin concentrations were decreased in all groups of wastewater-treated mice compared to the control group.Likewise,weight of testes,GSI and sperm concentration were decreased significantly in wastewater-treated mice in comparison to the control group.The percentage of morphologically healthy epididymal sperm was significantly reduced in wastewater-treated mice.Histopathological examination revealed degenerative changes in seminiferous tubules,a smaller number of spermatogenic cells,elongation of seminiferous tubules and degenerative changes of seminiferous tubules in wastewater-treated mice.Conclusions:Textile dyeing wastewater has harmful effects on hematological profile and reproductive health of male mice.

Potentials and Challenges of Carbon Knowledge Graph in Sustainable Textile Production for Carbon Traceability:A Review

Textile production has received considerable attention owing to its significance in production value,the complexity of its manufacturing processes and the extensive reach of its supply chains.However,textile industry consumes substantial energy and materials and emits greenhouse gases that severely harm the environment.In addressing this challenge,the concept of sustainable production offers crucial guidance for the sustainable development of the textile industry.Low-carbon manufacturing technologies provide robust technical support for the textile industry to transition to a low-carbon model by optimizing production processes,enhancing energy efficiency and minimizing material waste.Consequently,low-carbon manufacturing technologies have gradually been implemented in sustainable textile production scenarios.However,while research on low-carbon manufacturing technologies for textile production has advanced,these studies predominantly concentrate on theoretical methods,with relatively limited exploration of practical applications.To address this gap,a thorough overview of carbon emission management methods and tools in textile production,as well as the characteristics and influencing factors of carbon emissions in key textile manufacturing processes is presented to identify common issues.Additionally,two new concepts,carbon knowledge graph and carbon traceability,are introduced,offering strategic recommendations and application directions for the low-carbon development of sustainable textile production.Beginning with seven key aspects of sustainable textile production,the characteristics of carbon emissions and their influencing factors in key textile manufacturing process are systematically summarized.The aim is to provide guidance and optimization strategies for future emission reduction efforts by exploring the carbon emission situations and influencing factors at each stage.Furthermore,the potential and challenges of carbon knowledge graph technology are summarized in achieving carbon traceability,and several research ideas and suggestions are proposed.