Fruit fly eye study could impact future textiles

October 26, 2020  |  Out There

Russian and Swiss scientists have learned how to replicate a nanocoating with antimicrobial, anti-reflective and self-cleaning properties, based on the structures covering the corneas of fruit fly eyes, that could find applications in the textile industry. Researchers from Far Eastern Federal Unive…
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Solight Design launches the SEEUS95 self-adhering mask

September 14, 2020  |  Out There

Known for its solar-powered and origami-inspired lighting, Solight Design, based in New York, N.Y., has ventured into the mask design arena with the SEEUS95 clear, self-adhering, earloop-free mask, which the company says can provide better protection than masks made with nonwoven polypropylene, wove…
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Designer works with researchers to create “biogarmentry”

September 14, 2020  |  Out There

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. consumers send about 70 percent of the clothes and footwear produced each year to landfill. Project Biogarmentry, by designer Roya Aghighi, has been launched to address the drastic increase in the environmental impact of textile waste and …
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Transforming Touch project is all about serious play

September 8, 2020  |  Out There

London-based smart textile designer Michelle Rinow has unveiled her Transforming Touch Series, which was developed based on research about the benefits of sensory play for adults. “Many people think play is just for children, but I believe play is necessary through all stages of life and…
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“Smart” face mask translates and transcribes language

July 27, 2020  |  Out There

With mask-wearing now a part of everyday life worldwide, designers and innovators have tried to provide improved face coverings that address a variety of concerns. Some have been made transparent; others are made with biodegradable materials to address disposal problems. But among the innovations, …
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Twisting elastomers show promise in soft robotics

June 22, 2020  |  Out There

Scientists at the University of Pittsburgh and Harvard University have demonstrated a new method for ‘programming’ liquid crystalline elastomers (LCEs) that enables them to twist and bend in the presence of light. This made it possible to replicate the complex twisting actions of the…
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UCI scientists engineer human cells with squid-like transparency

June 8, 2020  |  Out There

Octopus, squid and other sea creatures can perform a disappearing act by using specialized tissues in their bodies to manipulate the transmission and reflection of light, and now researchers at the University of California Irvine have engineered human cells to have similar transparent abilities. In …
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Bio-designers produce a home-grown cellulose mask

May 25, 2020  |  Out There

During the current COVID-19 pandemic, the race has been on to provide adequate numbers of personal protective equipment (PPE). Designers, manufacturers and individuals at home have come out in force to offer creative solutions ranging from 3D printed shields to DIY face masks.&nb…
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Production Club presents the Micrashell Body Suit

May 11, 2020  |  Out There

Los Angeles-based creative studio Production Club offers a solution for the music and night life industries, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The company has recently released renderings of its latest concept, the Micrashell Protective Suit. As stay-at-home restrictions are eased, there is sti…
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Microalgae used to develop materials for fabric

May 5, 2020  |  Out There

The textile industry is set to put microalgae to work to develop materials for fabrics, apparel and footwear, according to a Sportstextile.com article. Companies around the world are collaborating, researching and producing materials using some of the simplest organisms.  Finishes Research has ma…
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