2017 is an unparalleled time in world of textiles. From self-heating outerwear to undergarments that measure athletic performance, the boundaries are continually being pushed. Meanwhile, CTT GROUP is leading the textile industry for research and development. Based in Canada, CTT has grown to be one of the most well-respected in the industry. However, they have come a long way since their days at the Saint-Hyacinthe College in Quebec as a technology transfer center.
Since 1983, CTT Group has grown into a multidisciplinary professional institute. In addition to their renown R&D center, they house a testing laboratory and industry and business association. Their vision of advancement of technical textiles, geosynthetics and advanced textile-based materials, has attracted renowned engineers and scientists. In fact, of them is Dr. Jacek Mlynarek. Accordingly, under his guidance, CTT has entered into a new age of “Intelligent Textiles” with their new pluridisciplinary sector. Through this, the firm hopes to see intelligent textiles and its products commercialized by incorporating them into the manufacturing process. They are also in the process of creating a standardization program for testing of first, second and third- generation through their extensive testing laboratory.
Here’s a little smart textiles cheat sheet according to CTT:
There are 3 functionalities of smart textiles:
- Sensitivity
- Reactivity
- Adaptability
There are 3 different components:
- Electronic
- Chemical
- Materials with specific properties
These components create 3 generations:
- First Generation- embedded in the finished product
- Second Generation- embedded in the textile structure through weaving, knitting or embroidering
- Third Generation- embedded in the fibers
On June 14th, Apparel Textile Sourcing Canada previewed a small selection of the smart textiles that will be showcased at the trade show taking place in Toronto on August 21st-23rd. Still, video footage from this preview can be viewed on the ATSC Facebook page. CTT is a proud partner of ATSC due to their dedication to advancing the smart textile industry. CCT stands by the mission, “To offer an extensive range of services dedicated to technological innovation and commercialization.” In turn they have created an impressive clientele consisting of but not limited to: manufacturers, engineers, designers, builders, governments, procurement officers, institutions and consumers. In a symbiotic they are able to fulfil their vision of being a driver behind technological innovation and aide in the economic resurgence of textile and technical materials.
