The SMARTWASTE initiative is committed to establishing a global, interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral network of experts specializing in smart-textiles derived from agricultural waste. This includes lignocellulosic fibers sourced from waste materials and poplar fiber as a natural byproduct. Through long-term collaboration, the consortium aims to pioneer sustainable innovations in smart textiles by developing cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions.
To achieve this goal, the research and application strategy is structured around four key objectives, each aligned with specific work packages. Objective 1 focuses on creating a global network to validate the production of regenerated fibers from agricultural waste and utilization of natural waste, poplar fiber, as a sustainable raw material. This objective is addressed within work package 1 through the application of green chemistry principles. Objective 2 seeks to integrate advanced materials with regenerated fibers from agricultural waste and poplar fibers to enhance electrical conductivity. This is the core focus of work package 2, where yarn and fabric surfaces will be functionalized via electroless plating and coating with conductive nano-additives like silver nanowires (AgNW) and graphene. The final objective covered in this reporting period is Objective 3, corresponding to the work package 3, which facilitates collaboration among partners to advance smart textile development from conductive agricultural waste.
Objectives 1 and 2 among the SMARTWASTE main framework carry the role of creating the substrate upon which the other objectives are built. In this milestone, objective 1 and objective 2 should have been fully achieved and objective 3 have been continued. Studies are being carried out in accordance with the time plan.
