fabrican

Fabrican is a term used to describe a spray-on fabric technology that forms a fabric by depositing a polymer solution from a spray device onto a surface. The technique uses a solvent-based polymer formulation that is sprayed in a controlled manner; as the solvent evaporates, the polymer chains entangle to create a cohesive, fabric-like coating. The resulting layer can conform to complex geometries and can be applied to skin, objects, or textiles.

Materials and process: The formulations typically consist of polymers dissolved in volatile solvents; the solvent evaporates rapidly to leave behind a nonwoven fabric composed of interlaced fibers. The system can be tuned to adjust thickness, porosity, and mechanical properties by changing polymer type, concentration, spray parameters, and substrate temperature.

Applications and status: Fabrican concepts have been demonstrated in art, fashion, and prototype demonstrations for wearable textiles and medical devices. The approach offers rapid production and custom fitting but faces challenges including solvent safety, environmental impact, control of fiber structure, bonding to curved surfaces, durability, washability, and regulatory considerations for medical or consumer products.

Limitations and governance: Not widely commercialized; development continues in research and industry labs; further work needed to ensure repeatability, safety, and scalability.