Textile Technology
The breadth of skills and expertise in the School ranges from processing the base polymer into fibre through to the yarn and onwards onto novel knitted, woven and nonwoven structures. Coupled to this manufacturing capability is our textile chemistry and coloration knowledge which allows substrates such as textiles, hair and skin to be modified and engineered with functionality as well as aesthetics.
In being recognised as an innovation focus the School works with both regional and international companies and has established long term research partnerships which provide the stability to tackle “blue sky” opportunities. Similarly these challenges are invariably multi-disciplinary where our group works across campus with other Schools and institutes in order to deliver the bigger solutions.
Impact
The world faces both regional and global challenges and our group has specifically targeted the important areas of sustainability and healthcare. In particular the development of an effective circular economy for fast fashion, and textiles in general, is vital in terms of minimising environmental impact and extending the lifetime of the fibre resource. So by establishing new technologies for the 21st Century, textiles manufacturing can be transformed and provide a platform for design, fashion, functionality based on integrated recycling.
With the shift in the demographic towards a longer living population the need for improved design and performance in healthcare materials and clothing has become more obvious. Within the School we have the Clothworkers’ Centre for Textile Materials Innovation in Healthcare (CCTMIH) and 3D Weaving Innovation Centre which use the latest materials, processing technologies and concepts to support new ideas in medical implants, wound healing, hygiene and structural supports.
Members
The following staff members are part of the Textile Technology group: