Hierarchically structured thermoplastic elastomer fibers for human hair mimicry

Overview

The University of Michigan presents an innovative materials development platform for synthetic hair fibers that closely mimic human hair. Utilizing hierarchically structured thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs), this technology emulates the texture, visual appearance, tactile properties, and durability of natural hair. By leveraging advances in microgel templating and anisotropic fiber processing, these fibers offer high-performance, tunable architectures with programmable mechanical and surface properties. This solution promises to outperform existing synthetic alternatives in both feel and function.

Technical specifications

Key Features:

• Hierarchical Structuring: Inspired by natural hair’s multi-layered structure, synthetic fibers are fabricated with TPE-based composite domains.
• Microgel Templating: Incorporates conductive or protein-mimetic gels to create anisotropic fibers, controlling surface roughness and frictional properties.
• Graph-Theory Optimization: Uses graph-theory-derived descriptors to map structure to fiber performance metrics, enabling iterative design refinement.
• Fiber Processing Techniques: Employs electrospinning and shear-alignment extrusion for fibers with tunable waviness and modulus gradients.

Applications:

• Realistic synthetic hair for wigs and hair extensions with tunable texture and durability.
• Potential for use in fashion, film, and cosmetic industries requiring high-quality hair alternatives.

Technology readiness level

This platform is currently at Technology Readiness Level 4, indicating that it has been validated in a laboratory setting. Ongoing efforts aim to scale and test the fibers under salon-like conditions to refine texture retention, tensile recovery, and color stability. Further development will focus on enhancing the fibers' durability and aesthetic performance through comprehensive testing and optimization.