Acquiring Nature's Inspiration' lotus effect on textiles http://www.fibre2fashion.com/industry-article/30/2945/acquiring-natures-inspiration-lotus-effecton-textiles1.asp
Article Abstract: Nature does not have janitors in the woods, dusting the trees. While people use various cleaning treatments, nature applies an environmentally benign cleaning strategy. Drops of water on the lotus leaf shine with a sparkle, washing away the dirt from it more swiftly than any other plant. Lotus leaves, through a complicated microto nano surface structure, repel dirt, and water. Researchers found the means to transform nature into technology which gave way for the making of self cleaning, and soil, & water repellent textiles. Self cleaning and super hydrophobic micro to nano structured surfaces was observed in some plants. A nanostructured surface is created with super paramagnetic nano particles. This ferromagnetic fibre structuring with high energy magnetic field coil takes place after the spinneret, when the spinmelt is in a thermoplastic state, which allows for the stretching of filament. Lotus effect has foresees a wide variety of beneficial textile applications in suiting, coats, furnishings, trousers, shower curtains, table covers etc. Fluorocarbon based fabrics are used in making sportswear, and industrial workwear. It is suggested that the fabric should be ironed or tumble dried. Heat treatment is required to restore the repellent effect. Learn More about Acquiring Nature's Inspiration' lotus effect on textiles @ Fibre2fashion