So what exactly are technical textiles?

Technical textiles are materials and products manufactured mainly for their technical performance and functional properties, rather than style or colour, such as a bullet proof vest.

There are many industries that use technical textiles and the sector commonly includes:

Aerospace Textiles: includes 3D woven structures, which are used in aircraft manufacture.

Agricultural Textiles: includes materials which can protect crops from weather and insect damage.

Automotive Textiles: includes the structure of a tyre which is made from textile fibres including cotton, nylon and polyester.

Clothing Textiles: includes performance garments that can be waterproof, windproof and highly breathable.

Construction Textiles: includes textiles that can be used as scaffold nets and roofing felts

Defence Textiles: includes materials used by the armed forces and emergency services that are flame retardant and heat-resistant.

Medical Textiles: includes the development of artificial arteries, sterile packaging and dressings.