The growing demand for sustainable and autonomous energy solutions has driven significant research into energy harvesting technologies. Among these, piezoelectric materials have emerged as a promising solution for converting mechanical energy into electrical power due to their high electromechanical coupling efficiency and adaptability. With the rapid advancement of wearable electronics and smart textiles, the integration of piezoelectric materials into textile structures offers a self-sustaining energy source by harnessing mechanical deformations from human-body movements and environmental vibrations. This review explores recent developments in piezoelectric textiles, highlighting the fundamental principles of piezoelectricity, material selection, fabrication techniques, and performance evaluation. Additionally, key applications are discussed. The insights provided in this review underscore the potential of piezoelectric textiles in enabling next-generation self-powered wearable systems.
Optimizing production scheduling in textile cutting workshops is crucial for improving efficiency and reducing lead times. Traditional scheduling methods frequently exhibit limited adaptability to fluctuating workloads, leading to suboptimal system performance. To address this challenge, this study integrates Fuzzy Logic (FL) with the Simulated Annealing (SA) algorithm to enhance scheduling adaptability. FL dynamically adjusts SA key parameters, including the initial temperature, the cooling rate, and the number of iterations per temperature level, based on three input variables: System Load (SL), Makespan Variability (MV), and Job Urgency (JU). A simulation is conducted in a textile cutting workshop where five cutting orders are processed through three stages: spreading, cutting, and labeling. Machines operate under resource constraints, and scheduling decisions aim to minimize makespan while adapting to workload fluctuations. The results demonstrate that the proposed approach effectively adjusts SA parameters in response to system conditions, leading to an improved scheduling performance. Comparative analysis with a conventional SA approach highlights the benefits of integrating FL, particularly in reducing makespan variability. These findings underline the potential of hybridizing metaheuristic algorithms with intelligent decision-making techniques in complex manufacturing environments. The proposed methodology provides a foundation for further research on adaptive scheduling solutions in textile and other production industries.
This study aims to develop sustainable and functional textile structures by enhancing the valorization of marine and textile waste—specifically Posidonia Oceanica and cotton fibers. Posidonia, a renewable marine biomass with a high cellulose content, was selected for its environmental abundance and potential as an eco-friendly material. The methodology involves morphological and chemical characterization of raw and chemically treated Posidonia fibers, including cationization using polyimethyldiallylammonium-diallylamine chloride (PDDACD), followed by FTIR and microscopy analyses. Results show that Posidonia fibers have comparable chemical composition to cotton but significantly differ in morphology and diameter. The chemical treatment enhanced fiber compatibility, suggesting improved adhesion potential in composite structures. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of using Posidonia as a biodegradable alternative to synthetic fibers, particularly for packaging and reinforcement in composite applications. The study provides original insight into the functional reuse of marine waste through eco-design strategies, contributing to circular economy practices in textile and material engineering.
In this study, P. oceanica fibers were blended with recycled cotton waste to produce composite reinforcements. This approach enables the dual valorization of underutilized marine and textile waste, in accordance with the principles of the circular economy. To improve fiber performance, three chemical treatments-scouring, alkalization, and cationization-were applied. The resulting reinforcements were analyzed using morphological and mechanical tests. The results show that alkalization significantly increased tensile strength, thanks to improved fiber expansion, enhanced surface reactivity, and improved porosity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirmed the structural changes, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy revealed the incorporation of new functional groups, particularly in the cationized fibers. The variable analysis of composites material manufacturing process was studied using ANOVA (analysis of variance). Pretreatment, fiber percentage, and resin concentration were the model variables. The results showed that increasing the resin concentration decreased air permeability while increasing water impermeability. A raw material is more water impermeable than a chemically modified material. Conversely, a 6% cationized material is more air permeable than a raw material. The resulting materials exhibit a tunable balance between mechanical integrity and permeability, depending on the type and intensity of the treatment. These results confirm the potential of chemically modified P. oceanica-based nonwovens as viable and durable reinforcements for applications in composite manufacturing, filtration, and biodegradable packaging.
Disposable baby diapers undergo continuous innovation to improve absorption, comfort, and breathability. Despite short use, they incorporate advanced technologies and materials tailored to infants’ physiological needs. Their performance relies on absorbing and retaining liquids while minimizing skin irritation, achieved through a complex interaction of layers. Diaper design prioritizes absorption, impermeability, and breathability. This study analyzes five baby diaper brands available in Tunisia to assess their breathability and comfort properties based on physical and morphological parameters. Measurements include total mass, thickness, density, and microscopic observations of topsheet, high loft, and backsheet. Air and water vapor permeability tests are also conducted to assess breathability. The results indicate that the density and morphological structure of the layers directly influence their breathability. High density and compact structure, as observed for topsheet D (0.42 g/cm3), limit the circulation of air and water vapor. This topsheet has the lowest air permeability (3903 mm/s), a reduced water vapor transmission rate (RWVP
Purpose The paper aims to investigate the dynamic measurement of the water vapour resistance. The water vapour diffusion kinetics depends on the fibre’s material. So, water vapour resistance measurement times till the equilibrium steady state can vary in the case of natural fibres compared to synthetic fibres. Devices for determining water vapour resistance according to the ISO 11092 standard allow static values to be measured. Design/methodology/approach In this study to investigate the dynamic of the water vapour resistance, a new parameter named “holding period” was introduced and defined as the time from sample placement on the measuring head until the measuring process begins. The holding period was varied as 0, 30, 60, 90, 120, 180, 240 and 300 s. Wool and cotton knitted fabrics were tested as natural fibres and compared to 100% polyester and 90% polyester/10% elastane as synthetic fibres. Measurements were conducted under both air velocities of 1 and 2 m/s. The experimental test data were statistically analysed based on ANOVA and four-in-one residual plots. Findings Statistical analysis of experimental tests shows that the holding period affects water vapour resistance in both air velocities of 1 and 2 m/s and on the measured values in the case of hydrophilic fibres. Research limitations/implications The study of the dynamic relative water vapour permeability of natural and synthetic is an important area of interest for future research. Practical implications It is recommended to hold the samples on the top of the head measurement before starting the test. Originality/value Following the ISO 11092 standard, the static values of the water vapour resistance were measured without considering the dynamic behaviour of the water vapour diffusion through the textile fabrics. This paper fulfils an experimental dynamic measurement of the water vapour resistance.
In this study, abrasive non-wovens made from industrial waste were produced. The Responsive Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to comprehend the system’s general behavior and calculate the weight loss of the abrasives. Using the Box-Behnken design, significant control parameters affecting the weight loss of abrasives were found. The weight loss and wear of the abrasive were found to be influenced by the size of the abrasive grain, according to the results. Results were not significantly affected by the percentage of fibers, resin concentration, or chemical treatment (cationization) of the reinforcements.
Baby diapers are products that offer optimal hygiene. In fact, at an age when baby cannot communicate yet, unforeseen events can happen. This means that there can be an emergency at any time, which is why they must use disposable diapers. Nowadays, these diapers have become a real concentrate of technology both in the choice of their components and in their implementation in the product in order to optimize their own functions and their combinations between them. Today, the industry has become highly competitive, and all manufacturers are trying to produce products that will satisfy their customers and they do this by providing attractive comfort qualities. In this context, and in order to contribute to the improvement of certain comfort characteristics of disposable baby diapers, we carried out a comparative study called benchmark between four of the most used brands in the Tunisian market, in order to determine the best composition. In this study, the analysis of baby diaper characteristics is divided into composition, fabrication and comfort characteristics. Diaper composition, mass, thickness, total absorption capacity, PLUTO absorption capacity, fluid runoff quantification and measurement of diaper rewets are all characteristics to be measured or identified. The results indicated that the most suitable diaper has a total absorption capacity of 1774.34
The goal of this study was to determine the influence of the yarn twist on the tensile behavior of the carbon fiber rovings. One aim was to study less explored areas of the common stress strain graphs such as nonlinearity and plasticity and the effect of the twist on such areas. These findings should be coupled to other in-depth investigations in order to more faithfully model the behavior of the yarn as whole.
Comfort is the prime need in clothing. It is affected by the properties of fibers, yarns, and fabrics. A good understanding of these factors is essential in the design and conception of functional clothes. Fabric design serves as a manufacturing tool to meet several end-use requirements. The construction specifications and design of knitted fabrics greatly influence the comfort level of the end-use garment. This study aims to investigate the effect of the knitting stitch type and the dyeing process on the clothing comfort of knitted fabrics. For this purpose, five structures were prepared by combining plain, float and tuck stitches: plain jersey, cross miss 1 × 1, single cross tuck, weft lock knit and Lacoste. Then, yellow, and black dyeing were applied. The investigated wear comfort properties were the drying time, the air permeability and the relative water vapor permeability. Tests were conducted on the finished and on domestically washed fabrics. The data obtained were statistically evaluated with Pearson correlation, paired t-test, analysis of variance analysis and the Tukey test. The results showed that tucked fabrics have the longest drying time combined with the lowest air and water vapor permeability. Black variants showed better drying behavior and higher water vapor permeability. Analysis of variance results showed that the structure has a significant effect on clothing comfort. However, the dyeing process exerts a significant influence only on the drying time and the relative water vapor permeability. The paired t-test results indicate that the domestic washing cycles significantly change the drying time and the air permeability of knitted fabrics.
The drying capacity of fabrics is an important feature for sportswear. Furthermore, the environmental impact of these products is crucial for the sustainability of the humankind. Combining the eco-friendly feature with clothing comfort is the golden solution. Claims have been made on the comfort level of COCONA® new biodegradable polyester yarn. This study is dedicated for investigating these claims. Six knitted fabrics were made in this work, three were made with COCONA® polyester yarn and three others were made with its biodegradable version. A comparison between the drying time, as a clothing comfort property, of these two groups of fabrics was done on finished and domestically washed fabrics. Results indicate that after finishing and washing, knits made with the biodegradable COCONA® yarn have a superior capacity for drying than knits made with the conventional COCONA® polyester yarn. After the domestic washing cycles, drying times of biodegradable fabrics show a slight improvement compared to the regular ones.
The manufacture of abrasives based on grains of pumice stone waste represents the objective of this work, which is to minimize both the cost of the product and to recover industrial waste that harms the environment. We also used a nonwoven based on cellulosic fibers as reinforcement and three types of resins (polyurethane, acrylic, and polyester). Obtaining these products is designed by two processes (by spraying and by coating). To carry out a study on the influence of the parameters of elaboration, particular attention was paid to the method of principal component analysis (PCA). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed to see what these grains look like on the abrasives. The different abrasion grains were compared according to their polishing effect. The effect of the manufacturing process, grain type, and size on the abrasive wear of denim fabrics, the material removal rate (MRR), and the resulting surface morphologies were quantitatively evaluated. We note that the abrasive manufacturing process, type, and size of abrasive particles affect the MRR.
This paper aims to compare the different abrasive nonwovens developed from textile waste with mechanical properties and surface states suitable for the washing treatment of jeans. The abrasives were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). The abrasive wear behavior of the composites after application to the washing out of jeans (denim) was evaluated. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to understand the overall behavior of the system and to determine the weight loss of the abrasives. Significant control factors and interactions influencing abrasives' weight loss were identified using the Box-Behnken design. Results indicated that the size of the abrasive grain affected the weight loss and the wear of the abrasive. The percentage of fibers, the concentration of the resin, and the chemical treatment of the reinforcements (cationization) had little significant influence on the results. The interactions appeared not very obvious compared to the influence of the granulometric parameter.
We can observe that the use of abrasives has increased in recent years. In this study, the grain of perlites and pumice stones was harvested from industries and used as abrasive grains. From the tests carried out on these grains, it is possible to determine the application of the abrasives. The particles were sieved, cleaned, and sorted according to the particle size analysis which consists in determining the proportion of the different particle size classes. To determine the appearance of granules and to determine their diameter, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used. With both hollows and bumps present, the morphology of grains is very diverse. Pumice grains have more calcium atoms than perlite grains, according to investigations done using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) technique. The perlite grains exhibit low resistance to wear in the micro-Deval test (MDE), whereas the pumice stone grains exhibit strong resistance.
Iron scrap is one of the substances rejected in large quantities of by-products from the steel industrial sector. In this work, waste cellulosic fibers and iron shavings were used as reinforcement and abrasive particles, respectively. Two methods of the synthesis of the hybrid composites were applied namely spraying and coating. Different analytical techniques of characterization, i.e., Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA/DTG), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX), were used to analyze the studied samples. The morphology of the abrasives displayed the presence of spherical grains on the surface with a diameter ranging from 100 to 200 µm. In the spraying process, the surface was characterized by the presence of hollows, bumps, and small empty areas. For the coating process, the fibers of the reinforcement and some drops of resins were visible on the surface of the abrasives. The EDX analysis suggested that the abrading action of the composite surface might be done by tearing off the iron grains. The properties of the matrices, process considered, size of the grains, and their distribution were found to be the principal parameters governing the abrasive process. As the particle size increases, the surface becomes rougher, allowing for more scraping of the materials surfaces.
Joining the great performance and sustainability is the clothing dilemma of the twenty-first century. Efforts have been made to invent new functional fibers without harming the environment, during the manufacturing process, or even after the product use. COCONA ® is a polyester yarn widely employed in sportswear for athletes, given its capacity to maintain the core temperature at an optimal range. The sustainable program launched by this yarn producer depicted adding a biodegradable character to their products while preserving the original functionalities. Our study aims to compare the wear comfort properties namely the air permeability, the water vapor permeability and the drying behavior of the two yarns (regular and biodegradable). In this study, six knitted fabrics were produced: where three using the regular COCONA ® yarn and three using the biodegradable COCONA ® yarn with the same pattern and machine settings. Results showed that using the biodegradable COCONA ® yarn increases the breathability and improves the drying capacity of loose knitted fabrics and it has no significant effect on tightly knitted structures.
The natural waste from two fibers has been gathered during the gypsum manufacturing sectors and recycled by fraying after cleaning fibers to reduce the detrimental effects on the environment. A thermogravimetric analysis (ATG) exhibits that the thermal degradation of fibers starts from 350 °C. The Differential scanning calorimeter analysis (DSC) curves show a peak at 85–90 °C which can be attributed to water loss. These cellulosic fibers have been blended with cotton fibers to make them non-woven and improve the performance of the material. The findings demonstrate that variations in the proportions of (cotton/tow) fibers have an effect on mechanical strength (Tear test, traction.). The chemical modification reduces resistance to water penetration chemical modification reduces resistance to water penetration. Roughness assessments of non-wovens using a User Surface Tester (UST) reveal that an increase in the amount of tow compared to cotton causes an increase in the roughness of samples. These fibers can be used in several fields such as construction, automotive, and also as composite reinforcements.
Yarn quality is an essential concept that requests the satisfaction of various parameters simultaneously. These parameters are fiber characteristics and yarn properties. Thus, it is necessary to develop model that can encompass all these variables and predict an overall yarn quality index. Since hybrid approaches combining two or more techniques have proved their abilities in processing and predicting accurately various variables over different research areas, this paper reports two hybrid models by combining two different approaches for predicting a new quality index: Back-propagation artificial neural networks (ANN) and fuzzy expert system. The hybrid models are ANN combined with ANN and ANN combined with fuzzy logic. The ANN is used to predict four yarn characteristics namely tenacity, breaking elongation, CVm and hairiness. Then, these four outputs are used to predict a new quality index by means of ANN or fuzzy expert system. Several performance criteria are necessary to evaluate the performance of the established models. They are correlation coefficient (R), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE) and mean relative percent error (MRPE). The obtained results show that these constructed hybrid models are able to predict yarn quality from the chosen input variables with a reasonable degree of accuracy. Moreover, the hybrid model using two ANN systems performs significantly better than the other one.
This paper presents the development of certain abrasives based on selected industrial wastes and gives an idea of their postuse behavior. These abrasives are manufactured using two methods: pulverization and coating. For these purposes, we used cellulosic nonwoven fibers as reinforcement, three types of resin (polyurethane, acrylic, and polyester) as a matrix, and abrasive grains of silicon carbide (SiC) and silica to obtain the abrasive character. We report the wear of the developed materials by abrasion, the evaluation of their roughness, the influence of the type of the abrasive grains, and their sizes on the wear performances. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to show the morphology of abrasives. The weight loss of abrasives was measured by thermogravimetric analysis and its derivative. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy allows the chemical characterization and identification of abrasive grains. Under the same test conditions, experimental results indicate that silica-based abrasives exhibit higher surface roughness and abrasion wear rate than SiC-based abrasives.