Nano-hybrid LED yarn having thermoregulating therapeutic properties, smart fabric and articles made therefrom

Abstract

The present invention provides a nano-hybrid LED yarn containing a first plurality of fibers comprising therein a light emission source selected from organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; and optionally, a second plurality of fibers; nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers; the second plurality of fibers, if present, or a yarn structure formed therefrom, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light, along with fabric and articles formed using the nano-hybrid LED yarn.

Description

NANO-HYBRID LED YARN HAVING THERMOREGULATING THERAPEUTICPROPERTIES, SMART FABRIC AND ARTICLES MADE THEREFROMCROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application is related to, and claims priority from, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 503,847, filed May 23, 2023, pending, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates to a nano-hybrid LED yam, and a smart fabric made using the yam. that has a biological effect on the wearer’s body, and articles made from the fabric.DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

[0003] Thermoregulation is a problem that affects human beings in a variety of occupations and environments around the world. According to Joseph Rampulla, MS, APRN, BC “Heat illness is generally underreported, and the true incidence is unknown. Death rates from other causes (e g. cardiovascular, respirator} ) increase during heat waves but are generally not reflected in the morbidity’ and mortality statistics related to heat illness. Nonetheless, heat waves account for more deaths than all other natural disasters combined in the USA.” From police and paramedics to construction workers and laborers, or sendee men and women engaging in strenuous exercise and physical training, hot and humid conditions degrade performance abilities and lead to injuries, fainting, and other more serious medical conditions. Contrarily. when human beings are subjected to cold temperatures for prolonged periods of time, poor thermoregulation can cause the body to slow down and even cause frostbite. Nevertheless, heat exhaustion and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can also hinder the body’s ability to recover from pre-existing injuries.

[0004] Most of the available products today for body cooling use lightweight polyester material with a finish that wicks moisture to create a lightweight fabric that will wick moisture away from the body. This creates a material that has some properties that will keep you cool (wicking pulls sweat away from your skin). While polyester is a durable fiber, it does best to insulate your body in cold temperatures. Fabrics and shirts made from polyester, with a wicking finish are readily available from every major sportswear company. Theeffectiveness of these polyester wicking fabrics at keeping your body comfortable in heat and humidity is minimal and quickly dissipates as the fiber becomes overloaded with body heat and perspiration.

[0005] Most of the available products today for body heating use heavier, tighter, and / or thicker materials to insulate the body. These bulky materials can hinder the wearer’s mobility' and thus, hinder performance during physical activities. Additionally, if the wearer becomes too hot. they must remove the products, and then, put the products back on when they become cold again. Such manual regulation of temperature in cold conditions takes is timeconsuming and a hassle while performing physical activities. The bulky' products can also be difficult to wash in convention household washing machines.

[0006] There is also a need for articles to be worn or used by individuals that can provide a therapeutic effect to the user / wearer including, but not limited to, antimicrobial activity', wound healing, thermoregulation, stimulation of collagen and / or elastin production, etc. While fabrics have been proposed that provide cooling or heating effects, the use of fabrics that can convert energy’ and emit wavelengths having therapeutic effect do not appear to have been suggested.

[0007] Accordingly, a fabric is needed that is capable of providing both thermoregulation and a therapeutic effect for the wearer.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide a nano-hybrid LED yam that can be used to prepare a thermoregulating and / or therapeutic smart fabric.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a smart fabric comprising the yam, where the fabric can provide therapeutic and / or thermoregulating effects to the wearer or user.

[0010] Another object of the invention is provide a garment formed from the smart fabric, which is designed to be washable and to be worn to provide thermoregulation and / or therapeutic benefits to the wearer.

[0011] Yet another object of the invention is to provide a smart fabric designed to provide healing effects to improve performance of the wearer and to also prolong the time necessary for the wearer to seek medical attention.

[0012] These and other objects of the present invention, alone or in combinations thereof, have been satisfied by the discovery of a nano-hybrid LED yam comprising:a first plurality of fibers comprising therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; and optionally, a second plurality of fibers; nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers; the second plurality of fibers, if present, or a yam structure formed therefrom, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light. The nanoparticles can contain various dopants that can upconvert different wavelengths, thereby providing the desired thermoregulating and therapeutic effects of the overall fabric, depending on which emission wavelengths are produced by the selected nanoparticles.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] The term "fiber" as used herein refers to a fundamental component used in the assembly of yams and fabrics. Generally, a fiber is a component which has a length dimension which is much greater than its diameter or width. This term includes ribbon, strip, staple, and other forms of chopped, cut or discontinuous fiber and the like having a regular or irregular cross section. "Fiber" also includes a plurality of any one of the above or a combination of the above.

[0014] As used herein, the term "high performance fiber" means that class of synthetic or natural non-glass fibers having high values of tenacity greater than 10 g / denier, such that they lend themselves for applications where high abrasion and / or cut resistance is important. Typically, high performance fibers have a very high degree of molecular orientation and crystallinity in the final fiber structure.

[0015] The term "filament" as used herein refers to a fiber of indefinite or extreme length such as found naturally in silk. This term also refers to manufactured fibers produced by. among other things, extrusion processes. Individual filaments making up a fiber may have any one of a variety of cross sections to include round, serrated or crenular, bean-shaped or others.

[0016] The term "yam" as used herein refers to a continuous strand of textile fibers, filaments or material in a form suitable for knitting, weaving, or otherwise intertwining to form a textile fabric. Yam can occur in a variety of forms to include a spun yam consisting ofstaple fibers usually bound together by twist; a multi filament yam consisting of many continuous filaments or strands; or a mono filament yam which consists of a single strand. A “blended yam” as used herein refers to a yam that comprises an intimate blend of at least two different types of fibers.

[0017] The term “composite yam” refers to a yam prepared from two or more yams, which can be the same or different. Composite yam can occur in a variety of forms wherein the two or more yams are in differing orientations relative to one another. The two or more yams can, for example, be parallel, wrapped one around the other(s), twisted together, or combinations of any or all of these, as well as other orientations, depending on the properties of the composite yam desired. Examples of such composite yams are provided in U.S. Patent No. 4,777,789. U.S. Patent No. 4,838,017. U.S. Patent No. 4,936.085, U.S. Patent No.5,177,948, U.S. Patent No. 5,628,172, U.S. Patent No. 5,632,137, U.S. Patent No. 5,644,907, U.S. Patent No. 5,655,358, U.S. Patent No. 5,845,476, U.S. Patent No. 6,212,914, U.S. Patent No. 6,230,524, U.S. Patent No. 6,341,483. U.S. Patent No. 6,349,531, U.S. Patent No.6,363,703, U.S. Patent No. 6,367,290, and U.S. Patent No. 6,381.940 (collectively, the “Kolmes patents”), the contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0018] For convenience, the term “yam component” as used herein, encompasses fiber, monofilament, multifilament and yam.

[0019] The present invention relates to a nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: a first plurality of fibers comprising therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; and optionally, a second plurality of fibers; nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers; the second plurality of fibers, if present, or a yam structure formed therefrom, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.

[0020] In some embodiments, the first plurality of fibers comprises, for example, a natural material (e.g., cotton, silk, etc.) onto the surface of which have been bonded the light emission source, or a synthetic material (e.g., nylon, polyester, Lyocell. a para-aramid like Kevlar, etc.) which can have the light emission source bonded to the surface, contained within the polymer backbone as part of the units forming the polymer of the fiber, or as anadditive into the polymer forming the fibers. In some embodiments, the first plurality of fibers comprises a single type of fiber, whereas in other embodiments, the first plurality of fibers comprises a blend of multiple natural and / or synthetic fibers. Additionally, the first plurality of fibers may be chosen based on desired properties of the overall yam such as elasticity, high-performance, hydrophobicity, weight, flame-resistance, or some other desired property. Examples of such fibers will be described further herein.

[0021] In order for the light emission source to function optimally, the first plurality of fibers is preferably formed of a conductive fiber or conductive polymer. In certain embodiments, the conductive fiber can be one having a metal conductive strand contained therein. Alternatively, the conductive fiber can be formed comprising a conductive polymer, examples of which are readily known to one of ordinary skill. In certain embodiments, the light emission source is an organic LED or polymeric LED which is incorporated into the polymer backbone of the polymer forming at least a portion of the first plurality of fibers. Once an electrical current (typically a DC current from a small battery pack provided with the article containing the nano-hybrid LED yam of embodiments of the present invention) is passed through the yam forming the first plurality of fibers, the light emission source is triggered and emits the light used to then trigger the nanoparticles emission, and / or activate the dye molecules. The dye molecules can be activated by the nanoparticles emission or directly by the light emission source.

[0022] The second plurality of fibers can be any desired natural or synthetic yam. depending on the properties desired in the resulting yam construction.

[0023] It will be appreciated that the structure of the first and second plurality of fibers within the yam can be one of many structures. In certain embodiments, the first plurality of fibers and second plurality of fibers are configured to form a blended yard, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled. In other embodiments, the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are run parallel to one another. In still further embodiments, the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are twisted around one another. In yet further embodiments, the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure which is a composite yam, wherein the first plurality of fibers is a core yam of the composite yam, and the second plurality of fibers is a cover yam of the composite yam. In certain of these embodiments, the nanoparticles are preferably adhered to at least a portion of the outer surface of the cover yam formed by the second plurality of fibers.

[0024] In some embodiments where the yam structure is a composite yam, the composite yam may further comprise one or more cover yams wrapped around the core yam. Further, the one or more cover yams may be wrapped around the core layer according to any wrapping pattern. In preferred embodiments of the composite yam, each successive cover yam is wrapped around the underlying cover yam in a direction opposite of the wrap direction of the cover yam on which it is wrapped.

[0025] The nano-hybrid LED yam of embodiments of the present invention can be any desired denier, preferably from 10 to 325, more preferably from 50 to 250, most preferably from 100 to 220. The disclosed yam is not limited to the aforementioned structures and thus, other yam structures are also within the scope of this disclosure.

[0026] In some embodiments, the upconverting nanoparticles make up about 0.5 wt% to about 3.5 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam. More preferably, in some embodiments, the nanoparticles make up about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam. Because the nanoparticles have a very large surface area to volume ratio, coating about at most 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam with the nanoparticles is sufficient to achieve a yam having the desired thermoregulating and therapeutic effects.

[0027] The nanoparticles have wavelength upconverting properties, meaning that the nanoparticles can change the wavelength of received light (in this respect, in the context of the present invention, the term “upconverting"’ refers to converting a lower energy radiation to a higher energy radiation (i.e. converting a longer wavelength radiation to a shorter wavelength radiation). In some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise materials configured to convert a received higher wavelength like infrared light to a lower w avelength like visible light. Thus, the nanoparticles absorb light having a first energy and first wavelength and emit light having a second energy that is higher than the first energy and a second wavelength that is smaller than the first wavelength.

[0028] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise metal-oxide coated upconverting nanoparticles with various dopants to achieve the upconverting properties. The type and concentration of dopants in the nanoparticles can be tuned to achieve a desired visible light wavelength after upconverting. For example, in some embodiments, the nanoparticles comprise mesoporous SiCh coated upconverting nanoparticles, SiCh-COOH modified upconverting nanoparticles, SiCh dense upconverting nanoparticles such as DIAGNANO Dense Silica Upconverting Nanoparticles sold by CD Bioparticles, or some other suitable nanoparticle that provides upconverting effects. As will be discussed further herein, the upconverting effects of the nanoparticle help provide thermoregulating and therapeuticeffects. The nanoparticles are adhered to the surface of the nano-hybrid LED yam such that the nano-hybrid LED yam has the wavelength upconverting properties. In one embodiment, the nanoparticles are adhered to the first and / or second pluralities of fibers, and then, the first and second pluralities of fibers are assembled together in a desired yam structure to form a nano-hybrid LED yam. In another embodiments, the first and second pluralities of fibers are first assembled together in a desired yam structure, and then, the nanoparticles are adhered to the desired yam structure to form the nano-hybrid LED yam.

[0029] To adhere the nanoparticles to the surface of the overall nano-hybrid LED yam or to the first and / or second pluralities of fibers of the nano-hybrid LED yam, a bonding agent and optionally a lubricant is used. The bonding agent and lubricant can be applied in any conventional manner, including but not limited to spraying on the yam. kiss-roll, or dipping the yam into a bath containing the bonding agent or lubricant, either neat or as a solution in a suitable organic or aqueous solvent. The preferred lubricant is a silicone with paraffin added. Additional lubricants which have been found to be satisfactory7are RAYOLAN 1813, Boehme FILATEX, or KL 400 (Kelmar).

[0030] After the optional step of lubrication, the overall nano-hybrid LED yam or the first and / or second pluralities of fibers thereof are then treated with at least one suitable bonding agent, including but not limited to at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyurethanes, polyacrylics, nylons, some other suitable polymeric substance, and other conventional fiber bonding compositions. The nanoparticles are mixed in the bonding agent to form a bonding agent mixture. The bonding agent mixture may be applied to the nanohybrid LED yam or fibers thereof through a variety of methods such as, for example, dipcoating, roll-coating, spraying, or the like. Once applied, the bonding agent is permitted to cure to provide sufficient bonding of the fibers of the nano-hybrid LED yam. thereby- securing the nanoparticles to the surfaces of the nano-hybrid LED yam. In the present invention, the term “cure” or “curing” includes, but is not limited to, drying of the bonding agent, polymerizing of the bonding agent, crosslinking of the bonding agent either with itself or the surface of the fibers to which it is applied, for example. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the nano-hybrid LED yam comprises nanoparticles suspended in a cured bonding agent that is adhered to outer surfaces of the nano-hybrid LED yam. In some embodiments, a lubricant is also arranged between the outer surfaces of the nano-hybrid LED yam and the cured bonding agent.

[0031] In the present invention, the nano-hybrid LED yam may be woven into a fabric that can be formed into articles, preferably into an article selected from the group consisting ofgarments, bed sheets, pillowcases, and bandages. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a garment formed from the present invention yam is formed by shaped knitting (knitting that uses dropped stitches in order to generate a garment in a particular shape, with minimal seams in construction). In some embodiments, the nano-hybrid LED yam is first woven into a thermoregulating therapeutic smart fabric, and then the thermoregulating therapeutic smart fabric is assembled into the article. In other embodiments, the nano-hybrid LED yam is woven directly into a desired article. It will be appreciated that other techniques to transform the nano-hybrid LED yam into a fabric and garment are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0032] When the article is a garment, it is preferably a member selected from the group consisting of shirts, undergarments, socks, leggings, biking pants / shorts and tights. When the garment is a shirt, it can be either short-sleeved or long-sleeved, and when the garment is biking pants it can be either long legged or shorts. More preferably, in some embodiments, the garment is designed to be worn under the wearer’s typical clothing. In some such embodiments, the garment is designed to be thin and conform to the wearer’s body such that the garment does not interfere with the fit and comfort of the wearer’s typical clothing overlying the garment such that the nano-hybrid LED yam in the garment is closest to the wearer’s skin to provide thermoregulating and therapeutic effects. Thus, in some such embodiments, the thermoregulating therapeutic smart fabric may be formed into a garment such as a pair of elastic, spandex-like leggings or pants and a spandex-like long-sleeved shirt. Additionally, the thermoregulating therapeutic smart fabric is designed to be survive washing without losing its thermoregulating and therapeutic properties. In some embodiments, the thermoregulating therapeutic smart fabric can survive more than 5 wash cycles, preferably more than 10 wash cycles, more preferably more than 20 wash cycles, and most preferably more than 30 wash cycles. In some embodiments, a suitable bonding agent can withstand the wash cycles such that the nanoparticles remain suspended in the bonding agent and adhered to the nano-hybrid LED yam even after the many wash cycles.

[0033] In embodiments of the present invention, the nano-hybrid LED yam comprises dye molecules adhered to the first and / or second pluralities of fibers or the formed yam structure. The dye molecules may be adhered to the first and / or second pluralities of fibers via the bonding agent or the lubricant, for example. Thus, in some embodiments, the bonding agent mixture may also comprise the dye molecules. In other embodiments, the dye molecules may be adhered to the first and / or second pluralities of fibers in a different process than the bonding agent and lubricant processes, such as through solution dyeing or ionic dyeing, depending on the type of fiber being dyed. When the nano-hybrid LED yam is in use, thevisible light emitted by the nanoparticles may activate the dye molecules coated on the yam. The activated dye molecules provide therapeutic effects to the wearer by producing a reactive oxygen species. The dye molecules are adhered at least to the fibers that comprise the nanoparticles such that the nanoparticles can efficiently activate the dye molecules. Thus, in some embodiments, the first plurality of fibers comprise the nanoparticles and the dye molecules and / or the second plurality of fibers comprise nanoparticles and the dye molecules. In some embodiments, the dye molecules comprise Rose Bengal. Methylene Blue. Coumarin 6, or some other suitable dye molecule capable of absorbing a wavelength emitted by the nanoparticles and emitting at a wavelength configured to provide the desired therapeutic effect.

[0034] The nano-hybrid LED yam of embodiments of the present invention, as well as articles formed using the nano-hybrid LED yam, can be used to provide various therapeutic benefits to users, including, but not limited to, antimicrobial activity, wound healing, thermoregulation, stimulation of collagen and / or elastin production, etc. The energy emitted from the nanoparticles and / or the singlet oxygen generated by the dye molecules upon activation can promote skin renewal, cell heath and tissue growth. The articles are usable in medical applications, smart textiles, therapeutic textiles, wearable sensing applications, and for soldiers / war fighters (where any of these capabilities can assist the wearer). When worn over a period of days and weeks, the garment can decrease cortisol levels in the blood and increase nitric oxide in the wearer’s body. Additionally, an increase of nitric oxide in one’s body can provide reduced inflammation, muscle spasm relief, detoxification, increased blood oxygen level, increased blood flow and micro-circulation, improved oxygen delivery to the brain, improved sleep quality, pain relief, enhanced white blood cell function for an improved immune system, accelerated wound healing, restless leg syndrome relief, improved sense of calm, improvement in men and women’s reproductive health, reduced anxiety and PTSD, and improved heart rate variability. The improved blood flow supports of all body systems including the cardiovascular system, the nervous system, the immune system, the digestive system, and the reproductive system.

[0035] By improving the body’s vital signs as mentioned above, the wearer’s athletic performance can also be improved. Thus, athletes, blue-collar workers, or other laborers of the thermoregulating therapeutic garments may have more stamina to complete tasks. The wound and inflammation healing effects of the thermoregulating therapeutic garments may also accelerate the wearer’s recovery and / or also prolong the time necessary for a wearer to seek medical attention for injuries. Thus, these thermoregulating therapeutic garments wouldbe useful for those in the military', shipmates, or anyone who is in a remote location with limited access to medical assistance. For example, a person stranded in sea water would have an improved chance of survival while waiting for rescue thanks to the thermoregulating and therapeutic effects of the invention. The smart fabric of embodiments of the present invention also does not comprise metal, which allows it to function in water without corrosion.

[0036] Most preferably, no other type of yam is used in the fabric and articles made using the present invention nano-hybrid LED yam, with the exception of thread used to stitch parts of the fabric together at the seams. However, it will be appreciated that depending on the application, additional yams may be needed to provide the desired garment properties. If the one or more additional yams are included, the yam can be any of a variety of ty pes of yam.

[0037] For example, the first plurality of fibers, the second plurality of fibers, or additional yams in the nano-hybrid LED yam may comprise an elastomeric fiber. An elastomer is a natural or synthetic polymer that, at room temperature, can be stretched and expanded to ty pically twice its original length. After removal of the tensile load it will immediately return to its original length. Along with spandex, rubber and anidex (no longer produced in the United States) are considered elastomeric fibers. Spun from a block copolymer, spandex fibers exploit the high crystallinity and hardness of polyurethane segments, yet remain "rubbery" due to alternating segments of polyethylene glycol. Suitable elastomeric fibers include, but are not limited to, fibers made from copolymers having both rigid and flexible segments in the polymer chains, such as, for example, block copolymers of polyurethane and polyethylene glycol. Particularly suitable elastomeric fibers include, but are not limited to. Spandex, such as LYCRA (produced by United Yam Products), EL ASP AN (produced by Invista), DORLASTAN (produced by Bayer), CLEAR SPAN (produced by Radici) and LINEL (produced by Fillattice).

[0038] Elastomeric fibers can have one or more of the following materials properties: can be stretched over 500% without breaking; able to be stretched repetitively and still recover original length; lightweight; abrasion resistant; poor strength, but stronger and more durable than rubber; soft, smooth, and supple; resistant to body oils, perspiration, lotions, and detergents; no static or pilling problem; ven’ comfortable; and easily dyed.

[0039] The first plurality of fibers can be any desired denier, preferably from 10 to 210, more preferably from 15 to 150, most preferably from 20 to 75. The elastomeric fiber can be used alone or combined with one or more other fibers of any desired type to form the first plurality of fibers, so long as the combination retains its elastomeric properties. If combinedwith one or more other fibers, the elastomeric fiber and other fibers are preferably blended to form the first plurality of fibers.

[0040] In some embodiments, the second plurality of fibers may be wrapped around the first plurality of fibers to form a composite yam structure, wherein the core yam is the first plurality7of fibers. The composite yam structure would be elastic due to the elastomeric core yam comprising the first plurality of fibers. Elastomeric yam containing composite yams are further described in U.S. Patents 5,568,657 and 5.442,815, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Elastomeric yam containing composite yams having wicking properties are described in U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 61 / 020,790, filed January 14, 2008, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0041] As another example, if high strength, tenacity and / or cut resistance are desired for the nano-hybrid LED yam, the first plurality' of fibers, the second plurality of fibers, or additional yams in the nano-hybrid LED yam may comprise small amounts of a high performance fiber in the present invention fabric. The high performance fiber can be any desired high performance fiber. If hydrophobicity is also desired, the high performance fiber preferably comprises a high molecular weight polyolefin, preferably high molecular weight polyethylene or high molecular weight polypropylene.

[0042] U.S. Pat. No. 4,457,985, hereby incorporated by reference, generally discusses high molecular weight polyethylene and polypropylene fibers. In the case of polyethylene, suitable fibers are those of molecular weight of at least 150,000. preferably at least 400,000, more preferably at least one million and most preferably between two million and five million. Such extended chain polyethylene (ECPE) fibers may be grown in solution as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,137,394 or U.S. Pat. No. 4,356,138, hereby incorporated by reference, or may be a filament spun from a solution to form a gel structure, as described in German Off. 3 004 699 and GB 2 051 667, and especially described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,551,296, hereby incorporated by reference. As used herein, the term polyethylene preferably means a predominantly linear polyethylene material that may contain minor amounts of chain branching or comonomers not exceeding 5 modifying units per 100 main chain carbon atoms, and that may also contain admixed therewith not more than about 50 weight percent of one or more polymeric additives such as alkene-1 -polymers, in particular low density polyethylene, polypropylene or polybutylene, or copolymers containing mono-olefins as primary monomers. Depending upon the formation technique, the draw ratio and temperatures, and other conditions, a variety of properties can be imparted to these fibers. The tenacity of the fibers should preferably be at least 15 grams per denier (g / d), more preferably at least 20 g / d.even more preferably at least 25 g / d and most preferably at least 28 g / d. Similarly, the tensile modulus of the filaments, as measured by an Instron tensile testing machine, is preferably at least 300 g / d, more preferably at least 500 g / d and still more preferably at least 1,000 g / d and most preferably at least 1,200 g / d. These highest values for tensile modulus and tenacity are generally obtainable only by employing solution grown or gel fiber processes. For example, high molecular weight polyethylene filaments produced commercially by Honeywell Corp, under the trade name SPECTRA or by DSM under the trade name DYNEEMA and having moderately high moduli and tenacity are particularly useful.

[0043] Similarly, highly oriented polypropylene of molecular weight at least 200,000, preferably at least one million and more preferably at least two million, may be used. Such high molecular weight polypropylene may be formed into reasonably well oriented fibers by techniques described in the various references referred to above, and especially by the technique of U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,663,101 and 4,784,820, hereby incorporated by reference, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 069,684, filed Jul. 6, 1987 (see published application WO 89 00213). Since polypropylene is a much less crystalline material than polyethylene and contains pendant methyl groups, tenacity values achievable with polypropylene are generally substantially lower than the corresponding values for polyethylene. Accordingly, a suitable tenacity7is at least about 8 g / d, with a preferred tenacity7being at least about 11 g / d. The tensile modulus for polypropylene is at least about 160 g / d, preferably at least about 200 g / d. The high performance yam can be any desired denier, preferably from 10 to 325. more preferably from 50 to 250, most preferably from 100 to 220.

[0044] The present invention fabric provides significantly more thermoregulating and therapeutic effects to the wearer to improve the wearer’s vital signs to prevent or prolong the need for medical assistance.

[0045] The following presents a non-limiting listing of embodiments of the present invention:Embodiment 1. A nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: a first plurality of fibers comprising therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; and optionally, a second plurality of fibers; nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers; the second plurality of fibers, if present, or a yam stmcture formed therefrom, wherein the nanoparticles are capable ofupconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.Embodiment 2. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 1, wherein the second plurality of fibers is present and the first and second pluralities of fibers together form a yam structure.Embodiment 3. The nano-hybrid LED yam of one of Embodiments 1 or 2, wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.Embodiment 4. The nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-3, further comprising a bonding agent.Embodiment 5. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 4, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the bonding agent.Embodiment 6. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 4, further comprising a lubricant.Embodiment 7. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 6, wherein the second plurality of fibers is present and the lubricant is arranged between the bonding agent and the first and second pluralities of fibers.Embodiment 8. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are run parallel to one another.Embodiment 9. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are twisted around one another.Embodiment 10. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure which is a composite yam, wherein the first plurality of fibers is a core yam of the composite yam, and the second plurality of fibers is a cover yam of the composite yam, wherein the nanoparticles are adhered to at least a portion of the outer surface of the cover yam formed by the second plurality of fibers.Embodiment 11. The nano-hybrid LED yam of Embodiment 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of yams form a yam structure which is a blended yard, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.Embodiment 12. The nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-11, wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may be optionally functionalized, doped, or both.Embodiment 13. The nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-12, wherein the second plurality7of fibers is present and the dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light are contained in or on the second plurality of fibers.Embodiment 14. The nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-13, wherein the dye molecules are used to dye the first plurality7of fibers, the second plurality7of fibers, or a yam structure formed therefrom.Embodiment 15. The nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1 or 4-13, wherein the dye molecules are contained in the bonding agent on at least one of a surface of the first plurality of fibers, the second plurality of fibers if present, or a yam structure formed therefrom.Embodiment 16. An article prepared from the nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-15.Embodiment 17. The article of Embodiment 16, wherein the article is a member selected from bed sheets, pillowcases, and bandages.Embodiment 18. The article of Embodiment 16, wherein the article is a garment.Embodiment 19. The article of Embodiment 18, wherein the garment is a member selected from the group consisting of shirts, undergarments, socks, leggings, and tights.Embodiment 20. The article of Embodiment 19, wherein the garment is a shirt.Embodiment 21. The article of Embodiment 19, wherein the shirt is a short-sleeved shirt.Embodiment 22. The article of Embodiment 19, wherein the shirt is a long-sleeved shirt.Embodiment 23. A method of forming the nano-hybrid LED yam of any one of Embodiments 1-22, comprising: forming a yam structure from a first plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers comprise therein a light emission source selected from the groupconsisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, and has nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure; and applying dye molecules to the yam structure, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.Embodiment 24. The method of Embodiment 23. wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.Embodiment 25. The method of one of Embodiments 23 or 24, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 26. The method of any one of Embodiments 23-25, further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.Embodiment 27. The method of Embodiment 26, wherein the lubricant is applied before the bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 28. The method of Embodiment 26. wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.Embodiment 29. The method of any one of Embodiments 23-28. further comprising a second plurality’ of fibers.Embodiment 30. The method of Embodiment 29, wherein the yam structure is formed as a blended yard, and wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.Embodiment 31. The method of any one of Embodiments 23-30. wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may optionally be doped.Embodiment 32. A method of forming a nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: forming a yam structure from a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers comprise therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diodematerials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure; and applying dye molecules to the yam structure, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.Embodiment 33. The method of Embodiment 32. wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.Embodiment 34. The method of one of Embodiments 32 or 33, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 35. The method of any one of Embodiments 32-34. further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.Embodiment 36. The method of Embodiment 35, wherein the lubricant is applied to the yam structure before the bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 37. The method of Embodiment 35. wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied to the yam structure simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.Embodiment 38. The method of any one of Embodiments 32-37, wherein the second plurality of fibers is arranged on outer surfaces of the yam structure.Embodiment 39. The method of any one of Embodiments 32-37. wherein the yam structure is formed as a composite yam, wherein the first plurality of fibers is a core yam of the composite yam, and wherein the second plurality of fibers is a cover yam of the composite yam.Embodiment 40. The method of any one of Embodiments 32-37. wherein the yam structure is formed as a blended yard, and wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.Embodiment 41. The method of any one of Embodiments 32-40, wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may optionally be doped.Embodiment 42. A method of forming a nano-hybrid LED yam composing:providing a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers comprises therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer lightemitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells and one or both of the first plurality of fibers and the second plurality' of fibers has been dyed by application of dye molecules thereto, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light; forming a yam structure from the first plurality' of fibers and the second plurality of fibers; applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure.Embodiment 43. The method of Embodiment 42. wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.Embodiment 44. The method of one of Embodiments 42 or 43, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 45. The method of any one of Embodiments 42-44. further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.Embodiment 46. The method of Embodiment 45, wherein the lubricant is applied to the yam structure before the bonding agent mixture.Embodiment 47. The method of Embodiment 45. wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied to the yam structure simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.Embodiment 48. The method of any one of Embodiments 42-47, wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to the second plurality of fibers.Embodiment 49. The method of any one of Embodiments 42-47. wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to the first plurality of fibers.Embodiment 50. The method of any one of Embodiments 42-47, wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to both the first plurality of fibers and the second plurality of fibers.

[0046] Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: a first plurality of fibers comprising therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; and optionally, a second plurality of fibers; nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers; the second plurality of fibers, if present, or a yam structure formed therefrom, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.

2. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of fibers is present and the first and second pluralities of fibers together form a yam structure.

3. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 w t% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.

4. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, further comprising a bonding agent.

5. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 4, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the bonding agent.

6. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 4, further comprising a lubricant.

7. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 6, wherein the second plurality of fibers is present and the lubricant is arranged between the bonding agent and the first and second pluralities of fibers.

8. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are run parallel to one another.

9. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are twisted around one another.

10. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers form a yam structure which is a composite yam. wherein the first plurality of fibers is a core yam of the composite yam, and the second plurality of fibers is a cover yam of the composite yam, wherein the nanoparticles are adhered to at least a portion of the outer surface of the cover yam formed by the second plurality of fibers.

11. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 2, wherein the first and second pluralities of yams form a yam structure which is a blended yard, wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.

12. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may be optionally functionalized, doped, or both.

13. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, wherein the second plurality of fibers is present and the dye molecules configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light are contained in or on the second plurality of fibers.

14. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, wherein the dye molecules are used to dye the first plurality of fibers, the second plurality of fibers, or a yam structure formed therefrom.

15. The nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 4, wherein the dye molecules are contained in the bonding agent on at least one of a surface of the first plurality of fibers, the second plurality of fibers if present, or a yam structure formed therefrom.

16. An article prepared from the nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1.

17. The article of claim 16. wherein the article is a member selected from bed sheets, pillowcases, and bandages.

18. The article of claim 16. wherein the article is a garment.

19. The article of claim 18, wherein the garment is a member selected from the group consisting of shirts, undergarments, socks, leggings, and tights.

20. The article of claim 19. wherein the garment is a shirt.

21. The article of claim 19, wherein the shirt is a short-sleeved shirt.

22. The article of claim 19. wherein the shirt is a long-sleeved shirt.

23. A method of forming the nano-hybrid LED yam of claim 1, comprising: forming a yam structure from a first plurality' of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers comprise therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer lightemitting electrochemical cells; applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, and has nanoparticles adhered to at least a portion of an outer surface of at least one of the first plurality of fibers, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure; and applying dye molecules to the yam structure, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.

25. The method of claim 23, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.

26. The method of claim 23, further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the lubricant is applied before the bonding agent mixture.

28. The method of claim 26, wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.

29. The method of claim 23, further comprising a second plurality of fibers.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the yam structure is formed as a blended yard, and wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.

31. The method of claim 23, wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may optionally be doped.

32. A method of forming a nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: forming a yam structure from a first plurality' of fibers and a second plurality7of fibers, wherein the first plurality of fibers comprise therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells; applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure; and applying dye molecules to the yam structure, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.

35. The method of claim 32, further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the lubricant is applied to the yam structure before the bonding agent mixture.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied to the yam structure simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.

38. The method of claim 32, wherein the second plurality of fibers is arranged on outer surfaces of the yam structure.

39. The method of claim 32, wherein the yam structure is formed as a composite yam, wherein the first plurality of fibers is a core yam of the composite yam, and wherein the second plurality of fibers is a cover yam of the composite yam.

40. The method of claim 32, wherein the yam structure is formed as a blended yard, and wherein the first and second pluralities of fibers are comingled.

41. The method of claim 32, wherein the nanoparticles comprise a silica composition, which may optionally be doped.

42. A method of forming a nano-hybrid LED yam comprising: providing a first plurality of fibers and a second plurality of fibers, wherein the first plurality7of fibers comprises therein a light emission source selected from the group consisting of organic light-emitting diode materials, polymer light-emitting diode materials, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells and one or both of the first plurality of fibers and the second plurality of fibers has been dyed by application of dye molecules thereto, the dye molecules being configured to produce reactive oxygen species when activated by visible light; forming a yam structure from the first plurality of fibers and the second plurality of fibers;applying a bonding agent mixture to the yam structure, the bonding agent mixture comprising a bonding agent and nanoparticles, wherein the nanoparticles are capable of upconverting incident wavelengths to emit a shorter emitted wavelength / higher energy wavelength; and curing the bonding agent mixture to the yam structure.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the nanoparticles are present in an amount of from about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% of the nano-hybrid LED yam.

44. The method of claim 42, wherein the nanoparticles are suspended within the cured bonding agent mixture.

45. The method of claim 42, further comprising applying a lubricant to the yam structure.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the lubricant is applied to the yam structure before the bonding agent mixture.

47. The method of claim 45, wherein the bonding agent mixture comprises the lubricant such that the lubricant is applied to the yam structure simultaneously with the bonding agent and nanoparticles.

48. The method of claim 42, wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to the second plurality of fibers.

49. The method of claim 42, wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to the first plurality of fibers.

50. The method of claim 42, wherein the application of dye molecules is applied to both the first plurality of fibers and the second plurality7of fibers.