Intelligent Textiles
Light, Heat, Data: From Fiber to Apparel
by Yvonne Heinen-Foudeh, Senior International Correspondent
Global smart textiles and apparel cover a variety of functions including sensing, thermoelectricity, luminescence, energy harvesting, and aesthetical ones. The promising, future-oriented growth segment typically finds applications in sectors such as medical, sports, and the military with potential in plenty of on-demand niches. Despite all possibilities, the market penetration of smart clothing is progressing rather hesitantly – at least in our eyes.
The market for global smart textiles including electronic wearables was expected to rise at a CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate), of about 34% between 2016 and 2023 – according to findings by Research and Markets, Dublin, Ireland. The pandemic, the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine, the energy crisis, and inflation have significantly slowed down the expected development.
However, The Needle's Eye editorial team will continue to observe the smart apparel segment with its limitless applications in sectors such as HMI (human-machine interfaces), medical, military, safety, and sport.
Thus, in this issue, we present the airbag jeans for motorcyclists, from Sweden that are about to conquer the world market for safe clothing for the sport and mobility option.
Be on the lookout for more.
Electrodes in knitted fabric: cost-effective, washable multifunctional solutions for prevention, rehabilitation, or fitness. ©:STFI Chemnitz
