Manufacture of garment materials

Functionalizing a broad range of stretchable substrates, including synthetic and natural fabrics, fibers and non-woven materials, by coating the substrates with various materials while the substrate is held stretched so as to maintain the breathability of the materials. This provides durability to the coatings and prolonged resistance to degradation due to washing and cleaning. One or both sides of the substrate may be treated to have different functional properties. A process is also provided for materials functionalization which can be compatible with the existing equipment.

Dye-sensitised solar cell with nickel cathode

The present invention relates to a cathode for use in a dye-sensitised solar cell which comprises a redox couple, wherein the cathode comprises: (a) metallic nickel; and (b) intrinsically conducting polymer that, during operation of the cell, reduces an oxidised species of the redox couple.