Rise of smart textiles powered by innovative coatings

The transformation is largely facilitated by the advancements in textile coatings.
In an era marked by technological progress and shifting consumer tastes, the global textile industry is undergoing an important transformation. According to a report by Persistence Market Research, this transformation is largely facilitated by the advancements in textile coatings. Not only are these coatings enhancing the aesthetic appeal and durability of the fabrics, but they are also playing a pivotal role in developing smart and functional textiles.
Increasingly, these innovative textiles are being applied across a broad spectrum of sectors from wearable technology and sportswear to medical devices, underscoring the reshaping of textile possibilities.
Significant growth expected
The global textile coatings market is estimated to witness significant growth, expanding from US$ 4.8 billion in 2024 to US$ 6.8 billion by 2031. This surge is spearheaded by technological advancements and increased consumer inclination towards functional and sustainable textiles. A noteworthy trend is the soaring demand for ecofriendly coatings, indicating a concerted industry and consumer focus on environmental responsibility.
Textile coatings, which essentially constitute the application of a layer or finish on fabric to enhance its properties, are becoming increasingly diverse. Modern coatings range from imparts such as water resistance, antibacterial protection to flammability resistance and even electronic conductivity. Nanotechnology and advanced chemistry have pushed the envelope further, enabling the creation of smart textiles that interact with their environment.
Advent of smart textiles
Among the remarkable strides in textile coatings, the advent of smart textiles stands out. With conductive coatings and other advanced elements, textiles that can monitor health, adapt to temperature changes and track physical activities are being developed. For instance, fabrics with conductive coatings act as interfaces for wearables that track vital statistics or provide real-time feedback during fitness activities.
Ecofriendly and sustainable coatings are reshaping the textile coatings industry, with bio-based and waterborne coatings offering greener substitutes. Bio-based coatings, derived from renewable sources like plant oils, have gained traction, while waterborne coatings significantly decrease volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions during production.
New innovative coatings
New coatings are also innovating the field of protective textiles used in industrial, military, and outdoor settings. There is a significant rise in the application of flame-retardant coatings in firefighting gear, automotive interiors, and homeware for enhanced safety. Similarly, fabrics treated with advanced nanomaterials offer superior resistance to UV radiation, moisture, and abrasion.
Self-healing and self-cleaning fabrics, an innovative development in textile coatings, are making their mark. Coatings developed from microencapsulated materials or chemical formulations enable fabrics to autonomously repair minor tears or scratches. Also, self-cleaning coatings create surfaces that repel water and oil, minimising staining and reducing washing frequency.
The smart home revolution continues
As the smart home revolution continues, coatings augmenting thermal regulation and energy efficiency are increasingly relevant. Textile coatings with phase-change materials (PCMs) effectively regulate temperature by absorbing, storing, and releasing heat.
However, despite its innovation and growth, the textile coatings industry grapples with certain impediments. The environmental footprint of traditional coatings, higher costs and technical complexities associated with sustainable alternatives, and significant investments needed for integrating advanced functionalities rank among the challenges faced.
This text was first published on technical-textiles.textiletechnology.net.
Caption: The global textile coatings market is estimated to witness significant growth, expanding from US$ 4.8 billion in 2024 to US$ 6.8 billion by 2031.