Nano and Micro Fibres

Understanding Nano and Micro Fibres

Nano fibres are incredibly small fibres, typically with diameters less than 100 nanometres (nm). They are even smaller than microfibres and offer unique properties and potential applications.
Microfibres have a diameter of less than 10 micrometres (μm), thinner than the finest silk and a fraction of the diameter of human hair. This results in a large surface area to volume ratio, enhancing various properties.

Production Methods

Electrospinning process is the standard method for producing nano fibres. This involves the use of electric forces to draw charged threads from polymer solutions or melts to create continuous nanoscale fibres.
Splittable microfibre yarns are typically produced as a bi-component fibre where one polymer is dissolved away leaving behind fine microfibres.

Properties and Benefits

The high surface area-to-volume ratio of nano and micro fibres enhances properties such as absorption, filtration and thermal insulation.
Nano fibres, due to their scale, can exhibit enhanced mechanical properties, including strength and modulus, when compared with reinforcements of larger dimensions.
Microfibres have a soft hand and superior draping qualities, enhancing the comfort and aesthetic of textiles.
They have a high level of dimensional stability offering resistance to shrinkage and creasing.

Application Areas

Nano and micro fibres have a wide range of applications. They are found in technical textiles such as medical textiles (wound dressings, drug delivery systems), filtration media (air, water filters), and protective clothing (to safeguard against chemical, biological, and thermal hazards).
In fashion textiles, microfibres are used for their luxurious feel and drape, often in apparel like sportswear, lingerie, and high-quality shirting fabric.

Impact and Sustainability

Concerns exist over the potential inhalation and accumulation of nano fibres in the human body, raising questions about their safety and impact on health.
Similarly, the release of microfibres into water systems during washing of microfibre textiles is a significant environmental issue, as the tiny plastic particles contribute to marine pollution.
Strategies are being explored to develop more sustainable nano and microfibres and to minimise their environmental impact. This includes producing them from bio-based materials, recycling, and developing textiles that reduce fibre shed during washing.

Conclusion

The potential of these small but powerful textiles is immense, offering a gateway to the creation of smarter, more functional, and sustainable materials. Nano and micro fibres can contribute to groundbreaking innovations, but their potential biohazards and environmental impact should always be carefully considered.