Lines of Research

Textile process and product engineering

This line of research includes the basic study and development of all materials (polymers, ceramics, metals, fibers, composites, etc.) and processes (physical and chemical) involved in the textile area. Some examples of research topics are: structure and properties of fibers and filaments, fabrics and non-woven materials; performance evaluation of textile materials; quality control of process parameters; evaluation of the parameters of any textile process; machinery and its elements; development of inputs (dyes and auxiliaries); biotechnology and textile chemistry; finishing technology; usability evaluation and conservation of textile articles (washing, removing stains, cleaning, etc.); analytical methods (statistical and optimization).

Technical, smart and functional textiles

The main focus of this line of research is the development of textile materials/structures able to perform a specific function. In this line, new fiber-based materials are studied to serve different segments such as: medicine, sports, civil engineering, transport, architecture, protection, etc. The concepts on the development of yarns, woven and knit fabrics, two- and three-dimensional complexes structures, functionalization techniques, surface activation methods, composite materials, textiles that sense and react to environmental conditions or stimuli from mechanical, thermal, chemical, electrical, magnetic or other sources (e-textiles, thermosensitive, photosensitive, conductive, luminescent, photovoltaic, shape-memory materials) are investigated. In this line of research, the development of finishes that provide different functionalities to textile products (antimicrobial, anti-UV, self-cleaning, etc.) is also investigated.

Sustainability in the textile sector

This line of research is based on the three dimensions of sustainability: environmental, social and economic. The studies are focused on the development of products, processes and technologies with low environmental impact. Procedures and mechanisms to support the sustainable use of natural resources and productive environments are also investigated. Some examples of research topics are: cleaner production; waste treatment and recovery; wastewater treatment; emission control and treatment; energy integration; water reuse; process and product management.