PhD student explores textile technologies in Japan

Janani Thiyagarajan, PhD student at the Sports Tech Research Centre at Mid Sweden University, spent the week in Japan alongside around 30 international students from different countries.

Janani shared his experience in Kyoto together with about thirty doctoral students.

“It was a great experience to learn about the technologies used at the Kyoto Institute of Technology. I can also see many opportunities for future collaboration,” says Janani.

The programme featured workshops exploring traditional Japanese textile techniques, including Kumihimo braiding and Kyo Yuzen dyeing.

Janani shows a test print in traditional Japanese technology.

This was followed by visits to several industrial sites. 

“We visited a traditional carpet manufacturer and spinning-machine manufacturers in Kyoto. I also visited a company in Kanazawa, where I saw how yarn for waterproof jackets is produced.”

“I saw very lightweight rain jackets that almost looked as if they were made of paper. The material was extremely thin, which was very interesting,” she says.

Since Janani’s research focuses on waterproof technical jackets, she was particularly interested in learning about alternative testing techniques.

"I also want to explore regenerated fibres and learn more about the technologies used to produce them at the Kyoto Institute of Technology."

Experiencing Japanese culture

The visit to Japan was not only an opportunity for academic and professional development, but also a chance to experience Japanese culture.

“People in Japan are very kind, and I really enjoyed the culture and the food, especially the desserts. I had three pieces of cake every day – they were so good! The ramen was also delicious.”

In connection with the summer school, Japanese desserts were served.

“Another amazing thing was that each railway station has its own stamp, which you can collect in a book resembling a passport. I managed to collect around 20 stamps.”

Looking back on the trip, Janani describes it as an intensive and rewarding experience.

“We also received a lot of help from Professor Yokohama and his team in the material characterisation laboratory, who showed us around.”

Professor Yokohama and his team.

On the final day of the summer school, Janani was awarded Best Presentation in the Beauty category. 

“We also had a welcome dinner and a farewell lunch, which provided further opportunities to connect with the other participants and experience Japanese hospitality.”

“I’m very thankful for the entire team at KIT Fiber and Textile Science Summer School for all the help and guidance. It’s been a great experience”

Janani receives her award for best presentation in the Beauty category.