Technical Textiles

Question 1

Give six examples of technical textiles.

Answer 1

1. Kevlar.
2. Nomex.
3. Gore-Tex.
4. X-Static.
5. Fastskin.
6. Reflective textiles.

Question 2

Describe Kevlar.

Answer 2

Kevlar creates bullet-proof body armour. It is lightweight for easier movement, and absorbs the impact of the bullet to prevent is ricocheting.

Question 3

Describe Nomex.

Answer 3

Nomex is a heat protection fabric created by Du Pont. Commercially it is used for oven gloves, but it is also used by firefighters and F1 drivers.

Question 4

Describe Gore-Tex.

Answer 4

Gore-Tex is used as a layer in a laminated fabric. It has tiny holes which allow perspiration to escape but prevents raindrops from penetrating. This makes it breathable and waterproof.

Question 5

Describe Fastskin.

Answer 5

Fastskin is developed by Speedos. It is biomimetic, meaning it is trying to imitate nature. It has V-shaped fibres, inspired by the ridges on shark skin. It makes swimmers more streamlined.

Question 6

Describe X-Static.

Answer 6

X-Static is a yarn which uses silver. This kills bacteria and fungi. It is used for medical textiles and commercially to stop socks smelling.

Question 7

Describe reflective textiles.

Answer 7

Reflective textiles are covered in tiny glass beads or prisms. They reflect light as a wave rather than scattering it. They are used on police uniforms and by cyclists.

Question 8

Define technical textiles.

Answer 8

Technical textiles have been developed to enhance their performance and specific properties.