Context:

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati have developed a water-repellent, conductive textile capable of converting electricity and sunlight into heat. This breakthrough addresses critical health risks associated with cold exposure, such as blood clotting, breathing issues, and weakened immunity. With potential applications in both outdoor and medical fields, this fabric represents a significant advancement in wearable technology, offering sustained warmth in extreme conditions.

Key Features and Advancements

1. Overcoming Challenges in Conductive Textiles

Traditional conductive textiles often face challenges like poor durability, high power consumption, and water sensitivity. The IIT Guwahati team has tackled these issues by coating cotton fabric with ultra-thin silver nanowires. These nanowires, far thinner than human hair, enable the fabric to conduct electricity efficiently, generating heat while retaining flexibility and softness.

2. Water-Repellent and Durable Design

To improve durability, the researchers applied a water-repellent coating inspired by the lotus leaf. This unique microscopically rough texture repels water, ensuring the fabric remains dry and conductive even in damp conditions. The coating also shields against sweat, rain, and spills, making it ideal for daily wear and outdoor use.

3. Efficient and Long-Lasting Heating

Powered by a small rechargeable battery or solar energy, this textile can maintain temperatures between 40°C and 60°C for over 10 hours. It has already been tested in wearable knee and elbow bands, showcasing its potential for sustained warmth in extreme weather and therapeutic applications such as arthritis treatment.

About Technical Textiles

Technical textiles refer to fabrics designed primarily for their functional and technical performance, rather than aesthetics. These textiles serve a wide range of purposes, from agriculture, roads, and railway tracks to sportswear, healthcare, and military applications. They are also used in bulletproof vests, fire-resistant clothing, high-altitude combat gear, and space exploration.

Government Initiatives for Technical Textiles

1. National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)

The National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) aims to establish India as a global leader in technical textiles.

• • Implementation Period: FY 2020-21 to 2023-24
  • Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Textiles

2. Key Government Schemes

• • Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles – Encourages domestic manufacturing.
  • PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (MITRA) Scheme – Promotes large-scale textile parks.
  • Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP) – Supports infrastructure development in the textile industry.