Abstract: Bi-component or multi-component fibers are prepared from two or more polymers with different chemical and physical structures. Depending on the different properties of polymer and additives, multicomponent fibers display different functions, such as thermo-bondable, self-crimping, self-cleaning and unique cross-sections. Multi-component fiber preparation technology is one of the important means for developing innovative textiles. Over the past few years, it has offered many high-end products to many application fields including medical & hygiene, personal protection, building and civil engineering, etc. The paper discusses the technological development and future prospects of multi-component fibers and related products.

Key words: multi-component fiber; intelligent textiles; function textiles; carbon nanotube