Nanotechnology in textiles: Environmental safety and sustainable practices

Abstract

Incorporation of nanoparticles into textiles brings significant functional properties while maintaining flexibility. Today, nano textiles are employed in various sectors such as sports, healthcare, and protection. Nonetheless, nanotechnology is seen to have the ability to change the current status of technologies dramatically; there is concern about its effects on the human and environment. The first part lays down the basics of nanoparticles’ toxicology while stressing that future studies must fully characterize nanoparticles and how they interact, become bioactive, and pose threats to humans and the environment. This review article discusses the environmental and safety aspects of nanomaterials while incorporating in textiles. The current regulations regarding nanomaterials in textiles such as REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals), EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) highlight the need for processes covering and measuring nanoparticles is focused. Also, it considers the integration of green nanotechnology, provides recommendations for the safe usage of nanotechnology to eradicate negative outcomes on the environment, and suggests the use of natural and recyclable items. By illustration of real-life applications, the review shows that sustainability and applicability of nanoparticles could go hand in hand for further developments such as smart and responsive textiles, as well as catering to the future aspects of nanotechnology in textiles.