Nanofabrics

[4] Depending on the desired property, a nanofabric is either constructed from nanoscopic fibers called nanofibers, or is formed by applying a solution containing nanoparticles to a regular fabric.

[3] Applications of nanofabrics have the potential to revolutionize textile manufacturing[6] and areas of medicine such as drug delivery and tissue engineering.

The high surface area to volume ratio observed in very small particles is what makes it possible to create many special properties exhibited by nanofabrics.

[18] The sol-gel process is used in a similar fashion to make polymer nanofibers, which are long, ultra-thin chains of proteins bonded together.

The deposited fibers form a porous nanofabric that can aid in drug delivery and tissue engineering depending on the type of polymer used.

The high surface area relative to the volume of particles increases their chemical reactivity, allowing them to stick to materials more permanently.

Fabrics treated with nanoparticle coatings during manufacturing produce materials that kill bacteria, eliminate moisture and odor, and prevent static electricity.

For example, a Cornell University student's prototype for a bactericidal jacket cost $10,000 alone,[4] so it may be a long time before nanofabric clothing is on the market.

[21] Nonwoven fabrics made by electrospinning have the potential to assist in the growth of organ tissue, bone, neurons, tendons, and ligaments.