Far Infrared Functional Textiles

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This project is aimed at the development of a high-efficient far-infrared (FIR) functional textiles, proposed as an innovative technology, to achieve higher heat preservation and body well-being benefits at the same time. Compared with traditional far-infrared textiles production, this innovative FIR textile production methodology is more cost-competitive and eco-friendly. Based on the exploration of the influence of spinning parameters to FIR fiber performance, an optic simulation model will be developed to predict the fiber FIR effects, which will facilitate the production plan for eco-friendly FIR fibers. In this optic simulation model and production plan, variables such as fiber brightness, finesse, linear shape, cross-section shape and drawing method, will be adjusted to achieve the most optical result to maximum FIR effects and higher product quality at the same time. As an excellent technological breakthrough, it may fill traditional product gap and form a core for the next generation of FIR textiles in the future. The proposed technology presents a high-technology, value-added and useful textile product to increase the competitive capacity of the Hong Kong textile and fashion industry and business.
Application

The FIR functional textile is a safe material for the application in areas such as thermal wear, active wear and sleepwear. The materials are able to improve blood circulation which the better circulatory flow can further enhance the bio-healthcare abilities such as keeping warm and increasing metabolic rate and blood oxygen level.

With significant results of enhancing emissivity efficiency and a higher level of temperature rise, the products made by the FIR functional fibres may provide a new healthcare alternative for enhancing daily functioning and well-being. Besides, it provides a sustainable way of producing personal health care apparel with bio-active functions and advantages induced by the FIR. 

Industry Benefit

Compared to the conventional method, the highly efficient far infrared functional textiles are more cost-competitive and eco-friendly. The solution provides permanent far infrared function for heat preservation.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about how products are made. The FIR functional textiles are able to produce high value-added products through an innovative eco-production technology.

With these breakthroughs, this technology may fill the traditional products’ gap and gain a key position in the FIR functional textile market.

Technological Breakthrough

The new production modifies the structure of fibre cross-session to achieve better FIR radiation absorptivity and emissivity, thus enhancing heat preservation of FIR textiles. The structural modification of fibre cross-section is applicable in all types of synthetic materials. The production method does not require any chemicals, additives, or coatings. As such, the function is more durable and able to endure numerous washes. Textile products made by such fibres are light in weight with a balance between the properties of moisture-thermal management and comfortability.

Awards
47th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2019) - Gold Medal
47th International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva (2019) - Thailand Award for the Best International Invention
Project Name (ITF)
Innovation of Highly Efficient Far Infrared Functional Textiles
Project Number (ITF)
ITP/001/18TP