Biomimetics of tree-shaped branching structure in textile fabrics

Abstract

Water transport properties of fabrics are critical to wearing comfort. A tree-shaped branching network, which exists widely in nature, is known to have an extremely efficient transport system. The emulation of the treeshaped branching structure in textile fabrics has the potential of developing fabrics with superb liquid water transport properties for enhanced comfort. Here, we report on the development of some novel multilayer woven and knitted structures which mimic the branching structure. Experimental investigations have shown that the fabrics with such new structure have clearly faster liquid water transport and better moisture management property. These new fabrics are being commercialized. © 2010 WIT Press.