“Fabrics of the Future Shine”

Shoes that adapt their shape according to the climate.  Soft pyjamas and sleepwear that release calming and soothing natural herbal remedies as you sleep.  Undergarments that exercise the muscles as you work. Safety gear for cyclists that glows rather than only reflecting.

These are just a few of the imaginative and innovative fabrics and applications that were on display at RMIT’s Fabrics of the Future exhibition on Tuesday 11th July.  The exhibition showcases the work of textiles students who had considered the possibilities for new textiles and fabrics enabled by nanotechnologies.  On display were concept boards and tactile products that vividly illustrated the potential for new materials.

The exhibition was sponsored and supported by Nanotechnology Victoria and the International Fibre Centre.  Dr Peter Binks, CEO of Nanotechnology Victoria, officially opened the exhibition and awarded the prizes for innovative work to Chamilka Panduwawala for his “Barefoot” concept and to Chanel Decru for her Calming Sleepwear.  Dr Binks said “The quality and creativity of these designs are beyond expectations.  We will work hard with the International Fibre Centre and the broader industry to bring some of these ideas to market”.

The “Commuter” safety gear for cyclists designed as part of this exhibition was also featured in The Age. To read the article click here.

For further information on textiles and nanotechnologies, including Fabrics of the Future, please contact Nanotechnology Victoria at enquiries@nanovic.com.au.