Smart fabrics are central to the advanced new waterproofing system for flat roofs that is the winner of the Techtextil 2024 New Product Innovation Award.

Developed by CITEVE, the Portuguese technological centre for  textiles and clothing, in partnership with Saint-Gobain Portugal and jacquard weaver Têxteis Penedo, the Smart Roofs System (SRS) consists of a thermally reflective, water-based liquid sealing membrane containing infrared reflector additives, and an intelligent textile reinforcement structure made from recycled polyester. The fabric is equipped with electronic yarns which react to heat, temperature and moisture and its curing process is accelerated by active heating.

It has been developed to improve the cracking resistance typical in existing membrane structures employed in construction processes, casued by a loss of mechanical and chemical resistance.

The elimination of solvents from the structure also means it is more sustainable than other liquid membrane solutions, according to Augusta Silva, innovation manager of textile printing and coating at CITEVE.

“We are honoured to receive this award, which positions us with innovators at the top level,” he said “It is a great recognition for CITEVE, our SRS partners and Portugal.”

CITEVE will be presented with the award at a special ceremony held during Techtextil on April 23^rd at Messe Franfurt, in the Hall 9 Forum.

www.citeve.pt