A garment that can prevent colds and flu and never needs washing, and another that destroys harmful gases and protects the wearer from smog and air pollution. These garments were designed by Olivia Ong in the College of Human Ecology’s Department of Fiber Science and Apparel Design. The garments were infused with their unusual qualities by fiber science Assistant Professor Juan Hinestroza and his postdoctoral researcher Hong Dong.
As reported in the Cornell University Chronicle, under a microscope you can see how the electrostatically charged nanoparticles create a protective shield around the cotton fibers in the top part of the dress, and the sleeves, hood and pockets of the jacket. The fabrics were created by dipping them in solutions containing nanoparticles synthesized in a lab. The resultant colors are not the product of dyes, but rather, reflections of manipulation of particle size or arrangement.
So, if you are a fashion connessieur and have a few thousand dollars to spare, then these fashion items may be just what you are looking for to compliment your wardrobe!
Nigel | 25-Jul-07 at 7:24 am | Permalink
It’s great seeing new kinds of functionality come out of nanotech — and textiles are particularly interesting because they deliver benefits so directly.
How long do you think it will take for nano-enabled materials to go down in price enough for general consumers to have access to it?
Carol Clark | 26-Jul-07 at 11:36 am | Permalink
Nigel, thanks for your comment. According to our “fashion expert” in the office it probably won’t take that long before these items become affordable for the general community. Did you see the article on our website called Fabrics of the Future?