The future of clothing functionality: nature as a paradigm Dr Veronika Kapsali MMT Textiles Limited www.mmttextiles.com

Biomimetics:

Bio

- life & –

mimesis

to copy

Mythology….. Victoria Amazonica

Velcro

Burr hooks Velcro

Dr Otto Schmitt

Schmitt Trigger

Biomimesis = Bionics = Biomimicry =Biognosis

Speedo Fastskin

Lotus Effect TM Source: BASF

Transfer of biological surface morphology onto polymer sheets Georgia Institute of Technology Source: P.Nagaraja

a and D. Yao (2006)

Octopus skin/ adaptive camouflage

Colour changing polymer gel Source: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Structural colour

Morpho menelaus

Morphotex

Source: Teijin Fibres Limited

Bio Armour MIT Institute for Soldier Nanotechnologies

Biomimetic feather like insulation University of Reading Penguin feather

Biomimetic feather like insulation University of Reading

Comfort trials 100 80 60 40 20 %RH Comfort -2 0 1 17 33 49 65 81 97 113 129 145 161 177 193 209 225

time 15 secs

-2.5

0 -0.5

-1 -1.5

Conventional Fibre Performance

Pinecone Effect: Dry microclimate Damp microclimate

Applications • Athletic wear (active sportswear) • Performance wear (climbing, walking, skiing) • Comfort wear (underwear, nightwear) • Military (underwear, multi-climate clothing) • Health (hospital bed linens, wound dressings) • Agricultural technology (Geo-textiles, soil moisture control) • Technical solutions (Formula 1, protective clothing) • Industrial (filter & valve technology, building, packaging) • Upholstery (transport, domestic)

Thank you !

[email protected]

www.mmttextiles.com