An innovative project developed within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences of Harran University was deemed worthy of support by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TÜBİTAK). Titled “Development of Smart Fabrics to Protect Against Radiation,” this project aims to pave the way for the production of smart textile products that will reduce radiation and protect users from its harmful effects.
Strong Shield Against Radiation with Nanotechnology
The project is being implemented under the leadership of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Numan Gözübenli, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, with significant contributions from Dr. Pınar Küce Çevik and Dr. İlker Can Çevik. Supported within the scope of the TÜBİTAK 1002-A Rapid Support Program, this study aims to develop smart fabrics with different morphological properties and high radiation attenuation capacity using nanoparticles obtained from rare earth elements. The project team aims to enable the production of reliable, functional and effective nanocomposite fabrics in light of the scientific data to be obtained by examining in detail the attenuating effect of the dimensions and structural properties of nanoparticles on radiation.
High Protection with Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles
Project manager Assoc. Prof. Dr. Numan Gözübenli stated that the basis of the study is to produce smart fabrics that have the ability to weaken radiation using cerium oxide nanoparticles. Gözübenli emphasized that radiation is emitted from various sources such as healthcare workers, those working in the nuclear energy sector and sunlight exposed in daily life, and emphasized that these fabrics to be developed will provide a significant contribution to health and safety by protecting users from these harmful effects.
New Areas of Use of Rare Earth Elements in Textiles
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Gözübenli stated that the originality of the project lies in the aim of achieving the highest level of protection by controlling the size and shape of nanoparticles. Gözübenli also stated that the use of rare earth elements, including cerium, makes the project particularly important, and added that this study will pave the way for the use of rare earth elements in high-tech textile products and that research and development studies in this field will gain significant momentum. This innovative project of Harran University is considered an important step in terms of transforming scientific knowledge into social benefit and contributing to the technological advancement of the country.
