Light-Functional Knitted Textiles for Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Applications: Materials, Technologies and Design Approaches
Year: 2026
Type: conference-paper
Abstract: Light-functional textiles are emerging as an essential element of advanced smart and functional materials, enabling advanced applications in safety, healthcare, and wearable systems. This study proposes a clear and systematic classification of light-functional threads based on their operational principles, distinguishing three main groups: active, passive, and light-guiding systems. Unlike conventional approaches, this framework highlights the fundamental differences between energy-dependent light generation, passive light emission, and light transmission mechanisms within textile structures. Particular attention is given to photoluminescent and retroreflective threads, which offer energy-efficient and sustainable solutions for visibility and functional performance. Their material composition, integration methods, and key performance parameters such as luminance, afterglow duration, and durability are critically analysed. In parallel, light-guiding systems based on optical fibres are discussed in terms of their ability to enable controlled light distribution in textiles. The paper further addresses recent advances in sustainable material design, including the incorporation of recycled components and environmentally friendly luminescent systems. By establishing a unified classification and linking material behaviour with application requirements, this study gives a robust foundation for the engineering of advanced light-functional textile systems.
Institution: Technical University of Sofia
Subfield: Building and Construction
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Technical University of Sofia
OpenAlex ID: W7213895116