An Overview on Far-Infrared Functional Textile Materials

The present study was aimed at highlighting the applicability of novel generations of functional textile materials based on incorporation of safe, pyroelectric nanoparticles into fibers. The synthetic fibers with negative ions emitting properties contain semiprecious stone particles (tourmaline, monazite, opal), ceramic, charcoal, zirconium powders, aluminum titanate and mixtures of such minerals. Currently, the synthetic fibers generating pyroelectric effects are obtained by introducing minerals (e.g. superfine tourmaline powder) into melted polymers before spinning or by dispersing the minerals into the spinning solution. As polymers, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl acetate, polyamide and viscose have been used. In low quantities, these minerals have almost no effect on human health. Included in large quantities, they tend to be too expensive (tourmaline, opal) and the fibers become harsh and fragile. The current generation of FIR functional textile materials faces a series of technical challenges: some of the of the used compounds are radioactive (monazite); if the particles size is too large (0.2-0.3µm), it may result in the production of highly non-uniform fibers and early wear of the mechanical parts producing installation; most of commercial pyroelectric fabrics emit a low amount of negative ions (500-2600 anions/cc) and FI rays, inducing a low health effect. Clinical studies involving exposure to pyroelectric compounds have highlighted positive effects on: blood circulation, skin cell re-vitalizing, collagen and elastin production, sleep modulation, wounds healing and acceleration of micro-circulation, chronic pain management, improvement of vascular endothelial functions, atherosclerosis and arthritis affections etc.