Cutting-Edge Textile Engineering: From Fiber Science to Smart Fabrics

Abstract

The textile industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, driven by groundbreaking advancements in fiber science, material engineering, and digital technologies. This shift has moved the industry beyond traditional fabric production into the realm of high-performance fibers, multifunctional textiles, and smart fabrics capable of responding to environmental stimuli. Innovations such as high-strength fibers, eco-friendly materials, and nanotechnology have led to the creation of fabrics that not only outperform conventional textiles in terms of durability and functionality but also reduce environmental impact. In parallel, the integration of smart technologies such as embedded sensors, actuators, and energy-harvesting systems has led to the development of fabrics that can monitor physiological parameters, adapt to external conditions, and even generate power. This review highlights the most recent breakthroughs in fiber science, discusses the rise of functional and adaptive fabrics, and examines the transformative potential of smart textiles in a wide range of applications, including healthcare, fashion, sports, defense, and environmental sustainability. The review emphasizes how these technologies are not only reshaping the performance and aesthetics of textiles but also redefining their role in modern society. With continued innovation, smart textiles are poised to play an increasingly integral part in improving health monitoring, enhancing performance, and contributing to a more sustainable future, ultimately changing the way we interact with textiles in our daily lives.