University of the Philippines, Diliman

College of Home Economics

Department of Clothing Textiles and Interior Design

SMART & GREEN

MATERIALS

RESEARCH

Submitted by:

HIDALGO, Juan Carlos A.

Submitted to:

Lec. M.M Gallarado

26th November, 2015

I. INTRODUCTION

Fibers are one of the most extensively used materials for production. Way back into

history and the early times, different cultures used fibers to create all sorts of utilitarian

objects. It was used as the base material to make clothing as protection from cold, which

was its main purpose, then eventually, for storage, for building construction, and for other

daily items and accessories. Fibers were mainly harvested from naturally grown

vegetation of different types. From these forms of plant life, Cellulosic fibers are

harvested from barks (Ramie, Hemp, and Jute), stems (palm and bamboo), leaves (sisal,

pine, and palm), husks (coconut/coir), and seeds (cotton). On the other hand, different

Fibers are also taken from animals. Included among these are mostly insect fibers such

as silk and protein fibers that come from animals such as mohair and wool.

Basically, Fibers, before, were only found in the environment. And, with such stress

and reliance on the environment as the main source of Fibers, production and

experimentation became limited to only what nature can provide.

Later on, fibers went past its limits upon the emergence and production of Man-made

fibers. These fibers, categorized as Cellulosic and Synthetic, are fibers that are modified

during the manufacturing process and whose composition and structure are determined

by man. Still having to rely on nature, man-made fibers paved the way to the

revitalization and regeneration of cellulose to create new fibers such as Rayon, the first

man-made fiber ever produced with Silk-like properties, Lyocell, and Acetate. Eventually,

as fiber production became more developed, fibers made from polymers and

petrochemicals were produced. With improved technology, new fibers were modified and

processed into high performance strands to be used for specific purposes. Included

among these are, Nylon, which is the most durable fiber, Acrylic or artificial wool,

Polyester, considered most versatile fiber, and Polypropylene.

In today’s industry, Fibers still remain among the most extensively used materials for

production. In fact, it is one of the most in demand materials. But once again, today’s

fibers seem to have posed their limits. The fibers we have, are natural and man-made,

which respectively have benefits to its users. On the other hand it also has an

embedding effect to our nature. Thus, for this reason, professionals have been

attempting to improve the properties and benefits of fibers for the betterment of nature

and us users, through technological and ecological innovation. In this research, 2 smart

materials and 2 green materials that are emerging today will be further discussed.

II. SMART MATERIALS

“Smart Materials” refers to materials that “can remember” configurations and can

conform to them when given a stimulus. These are objects that sense the environmental

events and then process the sensory information and acts on the environment. Basically,

these are materials that change properties in response to stimuli from mechanical,

thermal, chemical, electrical, magnetic, and physical sources. For a material to be

considered smart, it must comply with the parameters such as Immediacy (response in

real-time), Transiency (ability to respond to more than one environmental state), Self-

actuation, (internal intellect, ability to act by itself), Selectivity (ability to respond

discretely and predictably), and Directness (acting on or local to the activating

event/stimuli). Smart Materials include sensors and actuators and may be passive (can

sense) and active (can sense, react, and adapt).

With regard to fibers, smart materials are now mainly in the form of textiles and are

designed to maximize performance and characteristics such as lightness, elasticity,

breathability, and waterproofing. Most smart textiles today are enhanced through

nanotechnology and are mostly made of Microfibers. Smart fabrics/textiles are now

utilized in the industry and are found in forms such as clothing, carpets, curtains, fabrics,

and etc. GORE-TEX®, LYCRA®, KEVLAR® and COOLMAX® are some of today’s

remarkable smart materials.

Shown below are examples of Smart textile materials as researched.

A. DRAPILUX AIR

“drapilux stands for the skillful blend of stylish room decoration and intelligent

functionality.”

Drapilux Air is an air-cleansing fabric that is able to not only ward-off but

eliminate hazardous chemicals contained in the air. Drapilux Air is equipped with a

“Triple Fresh”, a metallic salt and oxide catalyst applied to Fibers developed by

Boyteks, enabling it to breakdown pollutants and significantly reduces bad odor and

hazardous substances.

1. DRAPILUX AIR PROPERTIES

PROPERTIES DESCRIPTION

ANTI-ODOR

Drapilux Air breaks down pollutants in the air

produced by smoke; exhaust smoke, ammonia-

based odors, cosmetic and household cleaners,

leather products, and Odorous Volatile Organic

compounds.

AIR-CLEANSING/

ANTI-CHEMICAL

Drapilux Air, with its Triple Fresh catalyst, is

able to eliminate hazardous chemicals trapped

in air such as Formaldehyde, Acetaldehyde,

Acetic acid, Nicotine, and Ammonia by

transforming it to harmless CO2 and H20 vapor.

HEALTHY

It stops the use of indoor sprays that contain

chemicals. It produces cleaner and fresher air

around the clock and reduces the risk of

allergies, particularly among elderly people or

those with weak immune systems

FLAME-RESISTANTInherently flame-retardant in accordance with

international standards.

SOUND INSULATION Great Soundproofing

PRACTICAL/EASE OF

MAINTENANCE

Can be used in any indoor space and is high in

Wash ability. Does not wear and tear easily.

2. PROCESS

Drapilux Air is not different, by any means, from other fabrics when it comes to the

production process. It is manufactured and processed just like other fabrics only that the

fibers are layered and incorporated with Boyteks’ Triple Fresh Mattress, its key

component.

3. APPLICATION

Drapilux Air is very practical as it can be used in any indoor space may it be the

kitchen, living room, bedroom, or the dining area. It may also be used in office work

areas, hotels, clinics, nursing and retirement home; it is applicable to any living

environment. By eliminating hazardous chemicals such as Formaldehyde found in

paint and furniture finishes, acetic acid, nicotine, and many other VOC’s, it creates a

very clean atmosphere that ensures the occupant a healthier living and working

environment.

In any space, Drapilux ensures the following:

- Efficient room allocation as there is no longer any need to differentiate between

smoking and non-smoking rooms.

- Whether it is a bar, restaurant or entrance lobby: drapilux air guarantees fresh air.

- Airborne pollutants, which may be highly concentrated in offices, are eliminated

- for a greater feeling of well-being and increased efficiency on behalf of the staff

- The air in staffrooms is improved.

B. DRAPILUX BIOAKTIV

Drapilux Bioaktiv is an anti-bacterial decorative fabric. Just like Drapilux Air it is

usually in fabric form and can be applied to any indoor space. It is mostly used in

hospitals but is now also utilized in residential spaces as it reduces or eliminates

allergens that can reside on surfaces or even in the air. It is composed of silver ions

in the Trevira-CS fiber allowing it to decimate pathogens in the fabric surface.

“The pathogens are killed off by the fact that the cell physiology and metabolic

processes of the pathogens are damaged, thereby stopping the enzymatic processes

as a result without causing skin irritations and allergies if the skin comes into contact

with the fabric” (Drapilux Bioaktiv, Drapilux).

1. DRAPILUX BIOAKTIV PROPERTIES

PROPERTIES DESCRIPTION

ANTI-BACTERIAL

Drapilux Bioaktiv stops the spread of bacteria

like Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus

aureus and decimates other bacteria.

HEALTHY

Drapilux Bioaktiv decimates bacteria found on

the fabric surface thus stopping contraction of

allergies such as Textile Contact Dermatitis

(TCD).

PRACTICAL It can be used in any indoor space.

FLAME-RESISTANTInherently flame-retardant in accordance with

international standards.

2. ADVANTAGES

Besides being Anti-bacterial and hyphoallergenic Drapilux Bioaktiv also ensures the following:

- Provides a much more efficient room hygiene – promotes cleanliness

- It functions as a form of permanently active protection against the spread of

bacteria through surfaces.

- Does not allow the spread of bacteria through its fibers – does not soak in

allergens

- Reduces hypersensitivity and the risk of allergies, especially in elderly patients

and those suffering from allergies

- Low-maintenance: long intervals between washes with a high degree of wash

permanence.

- Free of Volatile Organic Compounds and other toxic substances.

- Helps avoid the use of disinfectants therefore helps preserve indoor air quality

- Biocides are not released from the fibers

- no environmental pollution from chloro-organic compounds

- improved safety at work with the processing of bio-active fibers and tissues

3. PROCESS

Drapilux Bioaktiv is also, by any means, no different from other fabrics when it comes

to the production process. It is manufactured and processed like any other fabric.

However, the only difference is that it’s composed of Silver Ions attached to the high

quality Trevira-CS fiber.

With regard to the process by which it is able

to eliminate pathogens, Pathogens are prevented

through the usage of active fibers of certified CS-

quality. Silver ions attached to the fiber then

decimate the bacteria on the surface by damaging

the metabolic processes of the pathogens through

chemical reaction thus, stopping the enzymatic

processes leaving the surface of the fabric free of allergen and bacteria.

4. APPLICATION

With regard to interior use and application, it is very practical to the fact that

nowadays, pollutants, chemicals, allergens, and bacteria easily diffuse through the

air. Hence, it is highly recommended if interior spaces especially residences, working

areas, and high traffic areas be treated with hygienic materials.

In essence, Smart textiles are very useful in today’s modern day setting. Taking into

consideration the situation of our environment, the on-going climate change brought about

by intense pollution brings danger to each and every person living today. As the number of

industrial factories increase arithmetically, industrial waste that is left behind and undisposed

properly also increases, geometrically. Thus, it would be helpful to take measures to

maintain healthy living that is by using hygienic smart textiles.

With regard to its application here in the Philippines, it is highly recommended as the

Drapilux Air and Bioaktiv are very practical and versatile for it can be used in any type of

space. With consideration to the current status of the Philippine environment, smart textiles

would be able to promote cleanliness in households and working areas easier.

III. GREEN MATERIALS

Green materials are environmentally-responsible materials that are composed of

renewable rather than non-renewable resources as it promotes environmental

responsibility, energy-resource efficiency throughout a building’s life cycle from siting,

design, construction, operation, maintenance, renovation, and deconstruction. Green

materials are basically used to reduce or minimize embodied energy used upon

transportation, processing, fabrication, installation, usage/reuse, recycling, and

disposal, to conserve resources and most especially to avoid exploitation of the

environment.

A. BICICLETA RUBBER CARPET

Today, rubber is one of the most used materials in the industry. It is most

especially used to produce automotive parts and furnishings. On the lighter side, it

used for accessories and other daily items. However, rubber is now heavily mass-

produced to the point that the excess waste produced upon its production are

mishandled and disposed improperly. Rubbers being a long-lasting material, old

rubbers are not easily decomposed hence adding up to the huge amount of industrial

waste. To solve the issue, designers Adriana Miguel and Nina Marquina came up

with an ingenious idea.

Bicicleta is a carpet made entirely of post-consumed rubber tires highlighting the

principles of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. It was inspired by the extensive use of

bikes, the common mode of transportation, upon the designers’ visit in India, hence,

Bicicleta. With the use of 130 to 140 bicycle tire tubes, a carefully hand-loomed

sustainable carpet is made which is suitable for both indoors and outdoors.

1. BICICLETA RUBBER CARPET PROPERTIES

PROPERTIES DESCRIPTION

SUSTAINABLECan be made of post-consumed rubber and

recycled polyester. Can be Reused and Recycled to into new rubber material

DURABLEResilient and Durable enough in high use

spaces; however, it may be degraded by oil. Does not wear and tear easily

LOW MAINTENANCE Hand-washed or Vacuumed

VERSATILE For indoor and outdoor use

2. PROCESS

Each piece of carpet measuring 170x240 cm is made using 130 to 140 pieces of

post-consumed rubber tire tubes. Each rubber tube is cut into small pieces and is

carefully hand-loomed with each loop measuring 35 mm.

3. APPLICATION

The Rubber carpet functions like any other carpet. It is versatile for it can be used in

both interior and exterior spaces. The carpet is suitable for high traffic areas due to its

resiliency and durability but may also be used in low traffic areas. Additionally, the

Bicicleta carpet can also be used in styling as it is relatively avant-garde and industrial in

its concept and form.

B. TENCEL® Fiber

Tencel is the brand name of for improved/blended composition of fabric

composed of 30% Tencel, patented and owned by Lenzing Fibers, Austria. Tencel is

a hardwearing green fiber which is generically the fiber, Lyocell, but with more

improved properties. It is extracted from raw material wood mainly from Eucalyptus

tree pulps. Afterwards, the fiber is produced after undergoing a “closed loop” spinning

process. It is known for being a milestone in fiber production due to surpassing the

properties of silk, cotton, and wool.

1. TENCEL® FIBER PROPERTIES

PROPERTIES DESCRIPTION

SUSTAINABLEIt is harvested from raw material wood and

produced using a 100% recycled solvent

ECO-FRIENDLY

Ecologically produced via Closed loop process.

Does not utilize harmful chemicals such as

formaldehyde (100% VOC free). Utilizes

Photosynthesis, CO2 and H2O are converted

into dextrose and oxygen. The more Tencel, the

more oxygen.

ANTI-BACTERIAL

Reduced bacterial growth as compared to other

synthetic fibers which has a number of bacteria

increase up to 2000 times. Excellent moisture

absorption prevents growth of bacteria

HYPHOALLERGENIC

Prevents contraction of allergens on the fabric

surface due to its smoothness. Prevents skin

irritations

VERSATILE

More absorbent than cotton, softer than silk,

cooler than linen, naturally wrinkle-resistant,

high strength whether wet or dry, excellent

moisture absorption, Low surface energy

2. PROCESS

Tencel is made of Lyocell which is harvested from raw wood pulp. The wood pulp is

then dissolved into a non-toxic organic solvent, without the need of bleach, which is then

extruded into fine spinneret holes to produce the fiber. The solvent is then recycled and

reused in a closed loop process wherein more than 99% of the solvent is recovered in

reused for the next production.

Its manufacturing process poses minimal impact on the environment and economical

use of energy and water thus making it sustainable. Its waste products are also harmless

thus making it and its production process environmentally friendly.

3. APPLICATION

Tencel is primarily used as Sustainable clothing and eco-friendly clothing but is also

extensively used in the textile industry in forms of fabric, curtain, and interior other

furnishings.

In essence, green materials would be very practical nowadays knowing the

environmental situation, not only here in the Philippines, but throughout the world.

Through the usage of green materials, a lot of energy will be conserved, industrial waste

will be greatly reduced, and use of chemical substances will be reduced, thus, at the

same time leaving our environment unharmed and well-preserved.

Today, many professionals are now working toward utilizing smart and green

materials on a bigger scale. Continuous researches are being conducted and innovative

ideas being developed. Hopefully, more discoveries and remarkable innovations will be

made in time, for the betterment of the world and its Future.

SOURCES:

Drapilux.com. (2015). Intelligent Fabrics. Retrieved November 26, 2015 from:

http://www.drapilux.com/en/intelligent_fabrics/intelligent_fabrics.php

Lenzing-fibers.com. (2015). Tencel Botanic Fibers. Retrieved November 26, 2015 from

http://www.lenzing-fibers.com/en/tencel/

Nanimaquina.com (2015) Bicicleta Rubber Carpet. Retrieved November 26, 2015, from:

http://nanimarquina.com/collection/bicicleta/

Patagonia.com,. (2015). Materials and Technology: Tencel Lyocell. Retrieved November

26, 2015 from: http://www.patagonia.com/us/patagonia.go?assetid=67424

Textilelearner.com. (2015). Applications of Smart and Interactive Textiles. Retrieved

November 26, 2015 from: http://textilelearner.blogspot.com/2013/04/applications-of-

smart-and-interactive.html