Topics of dissertations | Ft.Tul.cz

Fibrous microplastics
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Jiří Militký, CSc.
Microplastics are a one of major environmental problems today. The most dangerous and the most common are fibrous microplastics, which are released from textiles during their normal use. The main goal of the research will be minimization of the microplastics emission. The procedures for the quantification of fiber microplastics will be proposed. The connections between the textile structure and the emission of fibrous microplastics will be investigated.

Chemical recycling of textiles
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Jakub Wiener, Ph.D.
The recycling of textiles is one of the fundamental goals for a sustainable society. Currently, applicable technologies for recycling textile and clothing wastes are not very efficient. Within this topic, chemical and physical procedures for recycling textiles, including textiles from mixed materials, will be developed. The goal of the work will be the investigation of separation and recycling procedures for cellulose and polyester fibers. As part of this topic, new technology developed and verified at our department will be applied.

Enhancing Color Accuracy and Consistency in Digital Textile Imaging through Spectral Modeling and Machine Learning-Based Color Correction
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Michal Vik, Ph.D.
This doctoral research aims to develop an advanced color management framework integrating spectral reflectance modeling and machine learning–based color correction to enhance color accuracy and reproducibility in digital textile imaging systems. The study will move beyond conventional ICC profile-based workflows by incorporating substrate-specific spectral characterization, Kubelka–Munk-based optical modeling, and predictive data-driven algorithms to compensate for nonlinear ink–fiber interactions. The research will systematically investigate the influence of textile parameters—including fiber type (cotton, polyester, blended fabrics), weave structure, surface roughness, and pre-treatment chemistry—on spectral reflectance behavior and perceived color. A comprehensive spectral database of printed textile samples will be constructed using high-resolution spectrophotometric measurements. Machine learning models, such as regression-based neural networks and ensemble learning techniques, will be trained to predict color deviations and generate adaptive correction algorithms tailored to specific textile substrates.

 Advanced Color Metrology for Three-Dimensional Textile Structures
Supervisor: prof. Ing. Michal Vik, Ph.D.
This doctoral research aims to develop an advanced color metrology framework tailored specifically for 3D textile objects, integrating spectral reflectance modeling, bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) analysis, and geometry-aware measurement protocols. The project will systematically investigate how structural parameters (including yarn density, weave/knit architecture, surface topography, and curvature radius) affect light–textile interaction and perceived color. High-resolution spectrophotometric and multi-angle measurement systems will be employed to construct a comprehensive spectral database of three-dimensional textile samples under controlled illumination and viewing geometries.
Building upon radiative transfer theory and textile-specific optical modeling approaches, the research will propose predictive models that account for directional scattering, subsurface diffusion, and shadow-induced chromatic shifts. Computational simulations and experimental validation will be combined to quantify geometry-dependent color deviations using instrumental metrics such as ΔE, CMC and CIE2000. In addition, perceptual assessments will be conducted to correlate instrumental measurements with human visual evaluation of curved and structured textile forms.
A key outcome of this research will be the development of standardized measurement guidelines and correction methodologies for accurate color evaluation of 3D textile products, with direct applications in digital garment prototyping, automated quality inspection, smart textiles, and advanced manufacturing. By bridging theoretical color science with practical textile engineering challenges, this study aims to establish a new framework for reliable color characterization beyond flat substrates, contributing to improved consistency, reproducibility, and digital-to-physical color fidelity in modern textile production systems.

Conductive Polymer Functionalization of Electrospun Nanofibrous Textiles for Advanced EMI Shielding
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veronika Tunáková
Development of electrically conductive nanofibrous textile layers via conductive polymer functionalization for lightweight and flexible electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding systems.

MXene-Functionalized Conventional Textile Structures for High-Performance Electromagnetic Shielding
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Veronika Tunáková
Integration of 2D conductive nanomaterials (MXenes) into traditional textile structures (woven, knitted, nonwoven fabrics) for flexible and absorption-dominated EMI shielding.

Biochromic Materials Inspired by Structural Color
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martina Viková
The growing demand for sustainable and functional textiles has accelerated research into bio-derived chromic materials capable of dynamic color transformation. Conventional synthetic dyes used in smart textiles often rely on petroleum-based chemistries, exhibit limited biodegradability, and may pose environmental and health risks. This research proposes the development of eco-friendly, stimuli-responsive color-changing systems derived from natural bio-dyes for integration into next-generation smart textile platforms.
The study will investigate plant-based chromophores such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, and betalains as sustainable alternatives for thermochromic, photochromic, and pH-responsive textile applications. Emphasis will be placed on enhancing dye stability, reversibility, wash fastness, and UV resistance through advanced encapsulation techniques, bio-polymer matrices, and nano-structuring strategies. The project will explore compatibility with textile substrates including cotton, silk, wool, and biodegradable synthetic fibers such as polylactic acid (PLA).
A key objective is to engineer multifunctional smart fabrics capable of real-time environmental sensing, including temperature regulation, sweat pH monitoring, and UV exposure indication. The research will combine materials chemistry, textile engineering, and surface functionalization methods to create scalable finishing techniques suitable for industrial adoption. Mechanical durability, color fatigue resistance, lifecycle assessment, and biodegradability will be systematically evaluated to ensure performance meets wearable technology standards.

Color-Changing Coatings Based on Hybrid Organic-Inorganic Structures for Sensory Textiles
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Martina Viková
Much attention has been paid to the research, development, and improvement of protective clothing, especially its barrier properties. With these protective barriers, it is important to understand how clothing or textiles protect the wearer from the above-mentioned hazardous conditions associated with UV radiation, hazardous gases, extreme heat, etc., and whether the protection is only partial or time-limited by environmental conditions.
Photochromic coatings on various substrates with controlled photochromic properties are made using organic dyes. The topic of this work is the development and study of the properties of sensory textiles based on organic-inorganic hybrid coatings. Hybrid coatings have the appropriate porosity and surface activity necessary to achieve chromic effects. Increased resistance to external influences and associated aging is also expected.

Sustainable Advanced Functional Materials from Exotic Bio-based Fibers and Materials
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Mohanapriya Venkataraman, M.Tech., M.F.Tech., Ph.D.
Sustainable advanced functional materials (SAFMs) derived from exotic fibers are revolutionizing the textile and composite industries by offering high-performance, eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic materials. This doctoral research will investigate the development of advanced functional materials derived from underutilized bio-based resources hybridized with mineral-based materials. This study aims to engineer eco-friendly composites, geotextiles, and functional coating materials that combine low cost and lightweight properties with superior structural, thermal, and antimicrobial functionalities.

Thermal and Acoustic Insulation of Advanced Structures
Supervisor: Assoc. Prof. Mohanapriya Venkataraman, M.Tech., M.F.Tech., Ph.D.
The demand for high-performance insulation materials, particularly for extreme conditions in building and industrial applications, requires innovative, lightweight, and efficient solutions. This doctoral research aims to develop advanced structures with tuned thickness and enhanced thermal and acoustic insulation properties. It will provide a comprehensive, multi-scale, and interdisciplinary approach that integrates simulation-based design with experimental validation. The findings will offer a significant contribution to the development of sustainable, lightweight, and high-performance insulation materials suitable for demanding, real-world engineering environments.