Textile Material Development for Textile Construction

Fibre based materials for construction are in continuous development. Due to the progress in polymer science, bionic research and knowledge in process engineering important properties can be improved continuously or sometimes in great steps. ITV Denkendorf in the south of Germany, near Stuttgart, is in charge of improvements, testing and for the development of new materials. In this paper some examples are given for successful material developments such as - Self cleaning surfaces based on hydrophobic plant surfaces, - flexible translucent heat insulation based on the pelt of the polar bear. Special materials for new applications are in R&D in the field of - smart materials - 3-D materials for barrier functions against heat transfer. For all material developments artificial tests to environmental stresses are necessary.