Challenges and Solutions in the Use of Hydrogels and Aerogels for Textiles

Hydrogels and aerogels are some of the groundbreaking materials used in advanced textiles to leverage their superior properties, for example, in terms of extremely low weight, high porosity, adjustable moisture management, and enhanced thermal regulation. Their integration into protective, biomedical, wearable, and multifunctional textiles portrays a great enhancement in material performance. However, several challenges hinder the widespread applications of hydrogel and aerogel-based textiles despite their advantages. Among them are issues related to biocompatibility, limited recycling and upcycling options, consumer acceptance issues, environmental sustainability, and economic viability. This chapter presents detailed research on these challenges and some new directions for addressing them. It also presents some of the ways in which the sustainability, safety, and commercial success of hydrogel/aerogel fabric can be improved from a multiperspective source.