Search

Textiles can be promising next‐generation wearable thermal management systems by exhibiting tunable infrared emissivity for dual‐mode control of cooling/warming, yet textiles often exhibit constant infrared emission. Herein, a dynamic thermoregulatory textile is woven from scalable‐manufactured radiative electrochromic fibers and is easily driven by a low voltage in a manner that results in a modulated emissivity of Δɛ≈0.35. Through a synergistic combination of the spiral outer electrode and electrochemically tunable carbon nanotube layer, excellent electrochemical controllability of the fibers is achieved over 100‐m length within 5s because of the decreased internal resistance with increasing length. As a result, the thermoregulatory textile suppresses substantial temperature variation and ensures excellent temperature regulation within ≈1.6 °C for simulated skin (much better than that of traditional textiles: ≈2.9 °C) under an ambient temperature fluctuation of 11.2 °C. Finally, wearable infrared camouflage and invisible infrared displays are also demonstrated by weaving or embroidering the radiative electrochromic fibers onto clothing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) based nanocomposites demonstrate remarkable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding potential. However, the efficient and rapid fabrication of SWCNT-based nanocomposite remains a technical challenge. This study successfully one-step synthesizes iron (Fe) nanoparticle-enriched SWCNTs (Fe@SWCNT) using the floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition (FCCVD) method in the aerosol phase. The aerosol-synthesized Fe@SWCNTs were directly integrated with carbon cloth (CC) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to develop a compelling nanocomposite film for multifunctional EMI shielding. The composite film exhibits exceptional shielding effectiveness of 50.2 dB in the X-band (8.2–12.4 GHz) with absolute shielding effectiveness (SSE t) of 3279.3 dB cm²/g. Notably, the film also displays rapid and uniform electrical heating at low voltages, reaching a temperature of 110.4 °C under a 1.0 V. Overall, this study reveals the potential applications of multifunctional textiles in fields such as EMI shielding, hydrophobicity, and thermal management. [Display omitted] • One-step synthesis of Fe@SWCNT in aerosol phase has been achieved. • The number of Fe nanoparticles can be well regulated by controlling the feeding rate. • The Fe@SWCNT film demonstrated EMI shielding of 50.2 dB at the X-band. • The composite film displays good hydrophobicity and electrical heating performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conductive cotton fabrics (CCFs) created by facile dip-coating exhibit great potential in smart materials but are limited by the poor stability and durability due to the weak adhesion between the cotton fabric (CF) substrate and the surface conductive coating. In this study, a mussel-inspired adhesive poly(vinyl alcohol)-g-3, 4-dihydroxybenzaldehyde (PVA-DBA) was synthesized to fabricate CCF for strain sensing and temperature sensing purposes. CCF was prepared by soaking CF in PVA-DBA aqueous solution, followed by dip-coating in cellulose nanofiber dispersed carbon nanotube (CNF&CNT) aqueous dispersion. The catechol structure of the PVA-DBA provided strong adhesion between CF and CNF&CNT, facilitating the coating of CNF&CNT onto the surface of CF firmly to generate stable and durable CCF. The CCF exhibited excellent strain sensing performance with gauge factors (GF) of 1.09 and 9.89 for strain ranges of 0–1.5% and 1.5–15%, respectively and response time of 80 ms. The CCF also demonstrated good temperature sensing behavior with a temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR) of −0.317%/°C. Furthermore, the CCF showed stability, repeatability, and durability against various mechanical destructions, such as ultrasonic treatment, tape peeling, and sandpaper abrasion. [Display omitted] • A novel mussel-inspired adhesive enhances stability and durability of conductive cotton fabric (CCF). • The fabricated CCF exhibits impressive strain and temperature sensing performance. • CCF demonstrates exceptional resilience against mechanical destruction, proving its practicality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastics offer many advantages and are widely used in various fields. Nevertheless, most plastics derived from petroleum are slow to degrade due to their stable polymer structure, posing serious threats to organisms and ecosystems. Thus, developing environmentally friendly and biodegradable plastics is imperative. In this study, biodegradable cellulose/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MCNT) hybrid gels and films with improved ultraviolet-shielding properties were successfully prepared using cotton textile waste as a resource. It was proven that MCNTs can be dispersed evenly in cellulose without any chemical or physical pretreatment. It was found that the contents of MCNTs had obvious effects on the structures and properties of hybrid films. Particularly, the averaged transmittance of cellulose/MCNT composite films in the range of 320–400 nm (T320–400) and 290–320 nm (T290–320) can be as low as 19.91% and 16.09%, when the content of MCNTs was 4.0%, much lower than those of pure cellulose films (T320–400: 84.12% and T290–320: 80.03%). Meanwhile, the water contact angles of the cellulose/MCNT films were increased by increasing the content of MCNTs. Most importantly, the mechanical performance of cellulose/MCNT films could be controlled by the additives of glycerol and MCNTs. The tensile strength of the cellulose/MCNT films was able to reach as high as 20.58 MPa, while the elongation at break was about 31.35%. To summarize, transparent cellulose/MCNT composites with enhanced ultraviolet-shielding properties can be manufactured successfully from low-cost cotton textile waste, which is beneficial not only in terms of environmental protection, but also the utilization of natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Integration of polylactic acid (PLA) textiles with conductive MXene holds great promise for fabricating green electronic textiles (e-textiles) and reducing the risk of electronic waste. However, constructing robust conductive networks on PLA fibers remains challenging due to the susceptibility of MXene to oxidation and the hydrophobicity of PLA fibers. Here, we demonstrate a versatile, degradable, and durable e-textile by decorating the deep eutectic solvent (DES) micro-etched PLA textile with MXene and sericin-modified carbon nanotube hybrid (MXene@SSCNT). The co-assembly of MXene with SSCNT in water not only enhanced its oxidative stability but also formed synergistic conductive networks with biomimetic leaf-like nanostructures on PLA fiber. Consequently, the MXene@SSCNT coated PLA textile (MCP-textile) exhibited high electrical conductivity (5.5 Ω·sq-1), high electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding efficiency (34.20 dB over X-band), excellent electrical heating performance (66.8 ℃, 5 V), and sensitive humidity response. Importantly, the interfacial bonding between the MXene@SSCNT and fibers was significantly enhanced by DES micro-etching, resulting in superior wash durability of MCP-textile. Furthermore, the MCP-textile also showed satisfactory breathability, flame retardancy, and degradability. Given these outstanding features, MCP-textile can serve as a green and versatile e-textile with tremendous potential in EMI shielding, personal thermal management, and respiratory monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shear thickening fluid (STF), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are both promising in body protection and anti-impact for the drastic viscosity change of STF and the extremely high tensile strength and elongation of CNTs. The excellent performance of the above two combined with traditional Kevlar fabrics can significantly improve the mechanical properties and reduce the number of layers used for body protection. This work reports a new method to prepare STF/CNTs/Kevlar with excellent tensile properties and anti-impact performance by spraying method with 1 wt% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) solution as a binder for better integration between CNTs and Kevlar. Surface morphology changes in the preparation process indicate the combined structure of PVA binder, CNTs, and STF, presenting a uniform macroscopic and nonuniform microscopic surface of STF/CNTs/Kevlar composite. The tensile strength and anti-impact properties including punch residual velocity and energy absorbed were studied and results for STF/CNTs/Kevlar composite are 669.8 ± 18.1 MPa, 1.602 ± 0.045 m/s, and 21.683 ± 1.182 J in 12 ms, increased by 46.4%, 23.0%, and 240.2%, respectively, compared with neat Kevlar, owing to the improved tight bonding and friction between fabrics yarns caused by PVA adhesive and tangled CNTs, accompanied with the enhanced viscosity of STF under forces. Highlights • Composites were made by spraying PVA, CNTs, and STF onto Kevlar fabrics; • The tensile strength of the composite was 46.4% higher than Kevlar; • The energy absorbed in 12 ms in anti-impact tests was improved by 240.2%; • Tight bonding and friction between yarns are reasons to improve properties; • The raised viscosity of STF under forces is useful for mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible wearable sensors are integral in diverse applications, particularly in healthcare and human–computer interaction systems. This paper introduces a resistive stretch sensor crafted from shape memory polymers (SMP) blended with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and coated with silver paste. Initially, the sensor's characteristics underwent evaluation using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) and an LCR meter. These sensors showcased exceptional sensitivity, boasting a gauge factor of up to 20 at 5% strain, making them adept at detecting subtle movements or stimuli. Subsequently, the study conducted a comparison between SMP-CNT conductors with and without the silver coating layer. The durability of the sensors was validated through 1000 cycles of stretching at 4% ∆R/R0. Lastly, the sensors were utilized for monitoring respiration and measuring human breathing. Fourier transform and power spectrum density (PSD) analysis were employed to discern frequency components. Positioned between the chest and abdominal wall for contact-based respiration monitoring, the sensors revealed a dominant frequency of approximately 0.35 Hz. Signal filtering further enhanced their ability to capture respiration signals, establishing them as valuable tools for next-generation personalized healthcare applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are in great demand in many fields because of their unique properties such as high conductivity, chemical stability, lightweight, and high strength. They also received much attention in optical‐related fields because of the super‐black characteristics under visible light and the photothermal effect of infrared light. Recently, the coloration of CNTs under visible light is realized by a simple liquid phase method with the help of silica photonic crystal (PC) coatings. However, the response modulation such as the photoluminescence (PL) property of CNTs to the infrared and ultraviolet (UV) bands is not yet studied. Herein, silane functionalized carbon dots (SiCDs) are introduced into silica PCs, and successfully realized the structural coloration and PL of CNT fibers (CNTFs). The optical and fluorescence visualization of single CNTs and suspended CNT networks (SCNTNs) is also realized with the assistance of SiCDs droplets. These SiCDs‐decorated SiPCs‐coated CNTFs (SiCDs@SiPCs‐CNTFs) exhibit an up/down‐conversion PL response, and the excitation light source can be UV light, visible light, and near‐infrared laser. The structural coloration and the development of new PL properties will promote the wide applications of PL carbon hybrid materials in many fields such as smart displays, intelligent textiles, anti‐counterfeiting, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Wearable technology refers to the devices that are integrated with textiles, or implanted in the body or plants for smart monitoring. Hence, this wearable technology has attracted tremendous attention from researchers globally due to its smart functions to be useful for mankind. The key target of this review is to examine the potential of rubber composite materials for such wearable devices. The rubber composites reviewed explore silicone rubber as a rubber matrix (SR). Another objective includes the use of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in pristine and functionalization forms explored as reinforcing fillers. Moreover, prospects of CNT including their structure, properties, and types are explored both in pristine and functionalized state are reviewed. Following this, the mechanical, and electrical, properties of such composites are reviewed. The reported results show that the reinforcing properties are strongly improved by adding functional groups to CNT in rubber composite. These improvements in reinforcing properties are assisted by the functional groups like carboxyl (OH), carbonyl (CO), epoxy, and alkoxy (CO) on the surface of filler are useful. They assist in improving the filler‐rubber compatibility thereby improving filler dispersion and thus finally mechanical and electrical properties. Following this, such improved properties are explored for specific real‐time wearable technologies. This real‐time monitoring includes nursing plant pulse growth monitoring, health monitoring, and humidity sensors. The review further proposes that the functionalized CNTs can be useful for obtaining robust real‐time strain‐sensing monitoring. Moreover, it assists in obtaining sharp response time, strain sensitivity, and good stretchability. Finally, the prospects and challenges are explored discussing the real‐time monitoring of these sensors. Configurations for nursing plant growth and other monitoring parameters are reviewed. The properties of pristine and functionalized carbon nanotubes reinforced silicone rubber for wearable technology were reviewed. The mechanical, and electrical aspects of functionalized carbon nanotubes were comparatively reviewed. Applications such as wearable strain sensors, humidity sensors, and wearable plant pulse monitoring sensors were reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review on printable supercapacitors (SCs) and their printing technologies delves into the realm of energy storage devices, focusing on the advancements in SC technology and the role of printing techniques in their fabrication. The abstract highlights the key advantages of SCs over traditional batteries and the latest developments in materials and fabrication methods. Highlighting materials like graphene oxide and carbon nanotubes showcases their role in printable inks for SCs. Additive manufacturing techniques like inkjet printing enable precise electrode deposition, leading to high‐performance SCs with enhanced energy storage capabilities. The integration of printable SCs in portable electronics, wearable devices, and soft robotics demonstrates their versatility and impact across industries. Future research directions aim to optimize material formulations, enhance printing processes, and explore novel applications in emerging fields like IoT devices and smart textiles. Through a comprehensive analysis of research articles and studies, this review provides valuable insights into the potential of printable SCs to revolutionize the energy storage landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible yarn-shaped batteries are promising candidates for the wearable electronics owing to their good flexibility, tiny volume, compatibility with textiles. However, their practical applications are hindered by low capacity, active material mass loading, and energy density. Herein, we develop a coaxially wrapping strategy to fabricate an advanced yarn-shaped aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) incorporating core-sheath carbon nanotube (CNT)/V 2 O 5 ·nH 2 O composite yarns as cathodes and zinc wire as anodes. The as-wrapped CNT intermediate layer not only enhances the surface's conductivity, but the nano-array porous layer can also accelerate the mixing of ion concentration between the electrode surface and the electrolyte fluid through the turbulence effect, thereby improving the interfacial ion/electron kinetics. As a result, the energy storage mechanism of CNT/V 2 O 5 ·nH 2 O yarn AZIBs transformed from capacitive-dominant to diffusion-controlled process, and the batteries demonstrate exceptional discharge capacity of 566.7 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, surpassing the state-of-art yarn-based AZIBs and approaching the theoretical zinc storage capacity (589 mAh g−1). In addition, they exhibit a high energy density of 471 Wh kg−1 at 25.5 W kg−1 and excellent cycling performance. This work opens a new and efficient avenue for the structure design of high-performance electrode materials for flexible yarn-based batteries. [Display omitted] • A core-sheath CNT/V 2 O 5 ·nH 2 O yarn-shaped zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) is reported. • The CNT intermediate layer affects interfacial charge kinetics of cathode yarns. • The yarn-shaped AZIBs exhibits diffusion-controlled energy storage mechanism. • The yarn-shaped AZIBs have the high capacity close to theoretical capacity of V 2 O 5. • The yarn-shaped AZIBs delivery a high energy density and exhibit long cycling life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber flexible strain sensors have the characteristics of small volume, light weight, good flexibility, easy deformation/recovery, and easy weaving. They can conform to various complex surfaces and endure various deformations, such as twisting and bending. Furthermore, the simple preparation process of fiber sensors lowers the production cost significantly. These features make them promising candidates for applications in motion monitoring, human-machine interface, and flexible intelligent products. However, the low sensitivity and narrow sensing range of existing sensors are still major challenges for their further development. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a MXene/MXene:MWCNTs@TPU fiber sensor, which adopts a two-step pre-stretching strategy to modify the porous TPU fiber surface with MXene and MWCNTs. The graded porous TPU fibers obtained by wet spinning can achieve 805 % stretching, providing a reliable substrate support for the fiber sensor, the combination of multi-dimensional conductive materials and the introduction of cracks and wrinkles enhance the sensitivity 277 and sensing range 510 % of the fiber sensor. The fiber sensor can detect various human motions and gestures by directly attaching to the skin or weaving into textiles, and can also be applied to information encryption transmission, demonstrating its huge potential in human health monitoring, intelligent flexible electronic products and encrypted communication. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Black textile filaments having good mechanical strength and low water absorbency were spun from carboxymethylated cellulose cross-linked with amine functionalized carboxylated carbon nanotubes (afc-CNT). Incorporating 1 wt.% afc-CNT by crosslinking resulted in filaments with increased mechanical strength (tenacity ~ 1.2 cN/dtex) and a lower water absorbency (water absorbency ~ 0.62 g water/g fiber). The fabricated cellulosic textile filaments also demonstrated antibacterial activity and UV protection capability due to incorporation of afc-CNT. Excellent level of color fastness was achieved for the composite textile filaments because of a chemical bond formation between carboxymethylated cellulose and afc-CNT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A contractile ionic electrochemical actuator was designed by incorporating two coiled carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns coated with a biofriendly ionogel. The working principle of such an actuator stands in capacitive ionic accumulation at the electrochemical double layer, which converts into linear contraction of the coiled CNT yarns. The prepared ionogel showed a good ionic conductivity of up to 1.9 mS cm−1 at room temperature and suitable mechanical properties (Young modulus <1 MPa and elongation at break at 75%). The ionogel/coiled CNT yarn actuator exhibited a maximum contractile stroke of 1.78% under electrochemical stimulation in open air. Such yarn actuators with safe components could open opportunities for application prospects in smart textiles and biomedical devices. • Electrochemical CNT yarns actuator coated with biofriendly ionogels. • Biofriendly ionogels composed of an acrylate polymer network and ChAc. • Ionogels exhibits high ionic conductivity and tunable mechanical properties. • CNT yarns actuator working in open air for at least 16 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Non-destructive electrolysis-induced expansion is used to reconstruct CNT networks. • An in situ composition strategy is proposed to impregnate PEG into CNT network during its expansion. • The in situ strategy results in superhigh PEG loading (96 wt%) and robust PEG confinement inside CNT network. • High thermal and electrical performances are realized for CNT/PEG composite phase change fibers. Phase change fibers with abilities to storage/release thermal energy and response to multiple stimuli are of high interest for wearable thermal management textiles. However, there are long-term challenges for carbon nanotube (CNT) network-directed phase change composites, such as the limited polymer loading, nonuniform composite structure, and weak connectivity between CNTs. Herein, an expansion-based in situ composition strategy is proposed to impregnate polyethylene glycol (PEG) into CNT network, leading to a high and homogeneous PEG loading (96 wt%) and robust PEG confinement inside the expanded CNT network. As the expansion induced CNT separation from aggregation, leading to the full utilization of CNT surfaces, the CNT/PEG composite fibers at the highest PEG loading exhibited superior high latent heat of 195–205 J g−1, and were electrically and thermally conductive. More importantly, owing to the confinement, these fibers showed remarkable cyclic thermal stability, without any liquid leakage. The composite fibers were also embroidered and woven into various fabrics, which showed excellent thermal managing capacity and rapid responses to electrical and optical stimuli. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seamlessly integrating biosensors into clothing for personalized stress level monitoring, specifically targeting cortisol, a stress‐related compound found in sweat, shows great potential for efficiently monitoring and managing individual mental and physical well‐being. Nevertheless, realizing the fabric biosensor faces a notable challenge, as it involves the persistent obstacle of ensuring reusability and washability. Here, a fabric sensing system constructed by a fiber electrode for rapid and reliable cortisol detection with high repeatability, breathability, and stability is reported. The fibers are assembled from aligned carbon nanotubes and functionalized with a molecularly imprinted polymer containing redox‐active nanoreporters. Through washing with ethanol, the fabricated fabric sensor exhibits high reusability for over 100 cycles detecting cortisol. The key is the large active surface area and elaborately designed channel distance in the fiber electrode, ensuring a stable interface between the polymer and the fiber electrode. The resulting fabric sensing system presents convenient monitoring of cortisol levels, allowing assessment of stress levels to understand emotions and health condition better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An N -doped 3d carbon nanofiber framework embedded with Co-VN (Co-VN/3DNC) was synthesized based on the carbonization of non-woven fabrics. The Co-VN/3DNC interlayer can serve as a physical barrier directly for the shuttle effect alleviating in lithium–sulfur batteries. [Display omitted] • A free-standing Co-VN/DNC interlayer for LSB was synthesized through carbonization method. • Conductive composite interlayer provides additional conductive paths to improve sulfur utilization efficiency. • The Co element could enrich the d orbit electrons of VN, which can enhance the redox performance of the interlayer. • The curved carbon nanotubes can expose active adsorption-catalytic sites, accelerating polysulfide redox kinetics for LSBs. Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered promising devices for next-generation secondary battery owing to their low cost and high energy density. However, the practical application of LSB is hindered by the sluggish redox kinetics of sulfur and the shuttling effect of polysulfide. To address the above problems, cobalt-doped vanadium nitride/three-dimensional carbon nanofiber (Co-VN/3DNC) composites were synthesized based on non-woven fabrics. The Co-VN/3DNC interlayer can serve as a physical barrier directly for the shuttle effect alleviating in LSBs. The introduction of the Co atom can enrich the d-electron number of VN, improving the catalysis of LSBs redox reaction. The growth of curved carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the surface of the intermediate layer can expose active adsorption-catalytic sites, accelerating polysulfide redox kinetics for LSBs. The electrochemical performance of the LSB is greatly enhanced by the synergistic effect of Co, VN, and 3DNC. The LSB with Co-VN/3DNC interlayer demonstrate a capacity of 1207.7 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.1C, and retain a specific capacity of 918.2 mAh g−1 even after 250 cycles. This work provides an effective strategy for the intermediate layers design to improve the electrochemical performance of LSBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lignin-derived CNT yarns show excellent electric heating properties. • Efficient electrothermal fabrics were developed from lignin-derived CNT yarns. • Electrothermal fabrics can be used as efficient heater and provide warmth. The rapid advancement of wearable electronic technology has greatly improved the capabilities of electrothermal fabrics, aligning with energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals. However, the market's growth has been hampered by the scarcity of materials that effectively balance conductivity, comfort, and weavability. Here, an efficient electrothermal fabric is developed by weaving lignin-derived carbon nanotube (CNT) yarns prepared by floating catalytic chemical vapor deposition onto conventional fabrics. The results show that the CNT yarns with a linear density of 25 g km−1 exhibit exceptional electric heating properties, and the electrothermal fabrics developed using these CNT yarns not only provide warmth to the human body but also function as efficient water heaters. Remarkably, they can raise the water temperature to 50℃ within just 10 min under a 3 V voltage. This groundbreaking work expands the application potential of biomass-derived CNT yarns and offers valuable insights for the development of high-efficiency electrothermal fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights Carbon fiber‐reinforced composite materials exhibit excellent mechanical and electromagnetic shielding capabilities. However, they have some drawbacks, such as high cost and significant reflection losses. In order to address these shortcomings, this study set out to design a sandwich‐structured composite material and produce a composite material designed for electromagnetic shielding using Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technology. This composite material promotes the “absorption‐reflection‐reabsorption” process of electromagnetic waves, significantly enhancing its shielding effectiveness, achieving up to 59.4 dB of shielding effect in the 8.2–12.4 GHz (X‐band) range. The study also employed carbon nanotubes (CNTs) matrix doping to modify the composite material, significantly reducing reflection losses. When the amount of carbon nanotubes added reaches 0.6 wt%, the overall SE can be increased by 18%. Additionally, the introduction of CNTs significantly improves the flexural strength and tensile strength of the composite material; at a 0.6 wt% CNT content, the average tensile strength increased from 526.4 to 600.9 MPa, indicating good interfacial interactions between CNTs and epoxy resin. This work provides valuable insights for the preparation of high‐performance electromagnetic shielding materials, with profound theoretical and practical significance. Observations through SEM and CT scanning techniques reveal that Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) technology facilitates strong interlayer bonding between carbon fibers, glass fibers, and copper wires, alongside effective epoxy resin adhesion, thus enhancing the mechanical properties. The sandwich structure's impedance mismatch characteristic facilitates an efficient “absorption‐reflection‐reabsorption” process of electromagnetic waves. Additionally, the incorporation of Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) enhances the absorption mechanism, reducing reflection losses. Incorporating CNTs further boosts both flexural and tensile strengths, attributed to improved interfacial interactions inhibiting crack formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable flexible electronic strain sensor devices have gained significant attention in recent years due to their potential for detecting human motion in various scenarios. However, the development of strain sensors with high sensitivity across a wide range of strains remains a major challenge. We present herein a novel strain sensor based on a graded structure thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)/carbon nanotube (CNT) composite yarn with significantly enhanced mechanical performance imparted by the designed structure. The twisted CNTs/TPU spiral yarn demonstrated a fracture elongation of up to 1066% while maintaining charge conductivity under high‐strain conditions. Moreover, it exhibited sensitive changes in resistance versus tensile strain, excellent repeatability, and stability. As a strain sensor, it achieved a gauge factor (GF) of 67.2 within a strain range below 50%, reaching 51.7 in a strain range exceeding 150%. With a fast response time of 0.12 s, it enabled accurate identification of movements in different body parts. These findings highlight the broad application potential of the designed spiral yarn strain sensor in areas such as human motion monitoring and human–computer interaction. Highlights: Prepares a flexible strain sensor with graded‐structure (CNT‐fiber‐yarn).Shows high sensitivity and a wide strain response rangeReveals the conductive model of strain sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been ample three-dimensional (3D) wearable piezoresistive sensors with high sensitivity, fast response, and outstanding long-term stability. Nevertheless, less consideration is given to simple fabrication, economical materials, and comfort. Herein, a simple and cost-effective strategy for fabricating piezoresistive sensors is presented based on commercial 3D air-laid nonwovens (NW), poly(tetrafluoroethylene-co-hexafluoropropylene-co-vinylidene fluoride) (THV), and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) via one-step dip-coating method. CNTs without functionalization are dispersed homogenously in the solvent and coated uniformly on the substrate with the help of THV as dispersant and adhesive. This highly compressible 3D NW-THV-CNTs piezoresistive sensor showcases splendent air permeability (2682.33 mm·s−1), water–vapor permeability (1625.50 g·m−2·d−1) and super-hydrophobicity (water contact angle = 158.5°), and is characterized by remarkable photothermal performance. Furthermore, the NW-THV-CNTs sensor has a sensitivity of 1.26 kPa−1 with good linearity (r2 = 0.99833) in wide detecting range (0–100 kPa), moderate response time (0.45 s) and release time (0.25 s), and good cyclic stability. Additionally, the sensor excels in monitoring human activities, and the array sensor composed of 4 × 4 pixels is capable of plotting distribution and shape of pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composite films with flexible and high electromagnetic-shielding (EMI) performance have been attracting more and more attention. Herein, using MXene as an interlayer and carbon nanotube/sodium alginate (CNT/SA) as a core layer, a flexible and high EMI MXene@CNT/SA@MXene (MCS) film with a sandwich structure was successfully prepared via alternating vacuum filtration. The optimal MCS film was obtained with a MXene dosage of 15 mg, a CNT/SA dosage of 6 mg and a CNT:SA mass ratio of 6:4. The thickness of the MCS film had a linear relation with the MXene and CNT/SA dosages. The best MCS film was 12 μm thick and exhibited an EMI total electromagnetic wave efficiency (SET) of 61.3 dB, SSE/t of 2.34 × 105 dB cm2 g−1 and conductivity of 1.74 × 105 S m−1. The breaking strength, breaking elongation and toughness of MCS film increased by 24.3%, 16.7%, and 40.0% in comparison with pure MXene film, and by 40.3%, 40.0%, and 100% in comparison with MXene/CNT/SA blend film, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Conductive fiber was prepared via coaxial wet spinning and magnetron sputtering. • The microcracks and silver plating improved the sensing strain from 70% to 167%. • The SBS/Gr/CNTs/Ag fiber sensor has a very high gauge factor of 1669. In this study, a flexible strain sensor with high sensitivity and a wide working strain range was developed by employing a poly(styrene butadiene styrene) (SBS) matrix and carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/graphene (Gr) as the conductive filler via coaxial wet spinning. Microcracks were induced on the surface of the SBS/Gr/CNTs fibers through controlled mechanical stretching, followed by enhancing the conductive network through silver plating using magnetron sputtering. The results revealed that both the formation of the microcrack structure and silver plating significantly improved the strain sensing performance of the SBS/Gr/CNTs fibers. The formation of microcracks increased the maximum sensing strain from 70 % to 110 % with a high gauge factor of 902. Furthermore, with a silver sputtering duration of 5 min, the strain working range of the silver-plated SBS/Gr/CNTs fiber-based sensor increased to 167 %, accompanied by a significantly enhanced gauge factor of 1669. The SBS/Gr/CNTs/Ag fiber sensor also exhibited reliable stability and durability during repeated stretching-releasing cycles. Moreover, it demonstrated the ability to monitor human movements, including finger and wrist joint motions, as well as knee joint bending. These findings highlight the effectiveness of microcrack formation and silver plating in enhancing the strain sensing capabilities of SBS/Gr/CNTs fibers. The developed sensor holds great promise for various applications, particularly in monitoring human movements and structural deformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave absorbing (MA) materials used in complex environments not only need efficient MA performance, but also should have comprehensive properties of being lightweight, flexible, heat-resistant and insulating. Here, we grew CoFe 2 O 4 nanoparticles (CFO NPs) in situ on oxidized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by a wet chemical method. Oxidized CNTs limit the aggregation of CFO NPs and form rich heterogeneous interfaces. Then CNT@CFO was mixed with aramid nanofibers (ANFs) dispersions and prepared lightweight and flexible ANF/CNT@CFO interpenetrating network aerogels through a freeze-drying process. Under the action of multiple loss mechanisms, the ANF/CNT@CFO aerogel shows −53.2 dB of minimum reflection loss, and 4.76 GHz of effective absorption bandwidth (1.59 mm). Meanwhile, the composite aerogel inherits the high heat resistance of each component, with the quality and shape remaining stable below 400 °C, and TG 5% occurs at 460 °C. In addition, effective MA properties can be maintained from room temperature to 300 °C. ANF/CNT@CFO is expected to become a MA material that can be used in complex environments. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiscale TiO 2 /carbon nanotubes (CNTs) nanofibrous mats were prepared by depositing TiO 2 nanofibers on the drawing CNTs membrane as the supporting materials of quinary fatty acid eutectics for thermal storage or release. The morphology, phase change property and the temperature regulation performance were characterized by Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and the device made in lab. The results indicated that channel-like structured TiO 2 fibers distributed randomly on every layer of the drawing aligned CNTs fiber membrane, forming three-dimensional (3D) reticulate structure, which is beneficial to the adsorption of phase change materials (PCMs). DSC results showed the phase change enthalpy of as-prepared form-stable phase change materials (FSPCMs) was about 100 J·g−1, and there is no significant decrease after 100 cycles. The temperature regulation test showed that composite fabrics composed of FSPCMs had the obvious buffering effect on the temperature change compared with pure cotton fabrics. The results demonstrated TiO 2 /CNT nanofibrous mats are promising supporting materials of FSPCMs in the field of intelligent temperature regulation fabrics. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Piezoelectric composite hydrogels have been developed as interfaces connecting biological organs and electronic devices owing to their flexibility, biocompatibility, and electromechanical behavior, which enable the conversion of environmental stimuli into electronic signals. This study presents a multifunctional hydrogel that is soft, deformable, conductive, and piezoelectric. Using water as solvent and ZnO carbon nanotube (CNT) modified polyvinyl alcohol/agar/tannin as active ingredient, a one-pot green solution mixing method was used to prepare piezoelectric hydrogel with multi-network structure. The T5C5Z4 composite hydrogel designed in this paper has excellent performance in the sensing test, and can also clearly and accurately generate signals for slight movements of body parts. The T5C5Z4 composite hydrogel also has stable piezoelectric performance. In this paper designs a 100 g ball with a radius of 10 mm that falls freely from different heights and contacts with composite water (6 cm*3 cm*4 mm) to output different electrical signals, and the output voltage also increases with the height with increasing. The composite hydrogel has also been demonstrated as a sensing-detectable, piezoelectrically stimulated flexible bioelectronic materials. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollution of electromagnetic waves is becoming increasingly serious, and it is urgent to develop high-performance microwave absorbing materials (MAMs). Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been considered as potential MAMs due to their tunable electromagnetic properties, low density, and excellent mechanical properties. This article reviews the research progress of CNT-based MAMs in recent years. First, the fundamental theory of microwave absorption technology is introduced. Subsequently, the design strategies and synthesis methods of CNT-based MAMs are reviewed from the perspective of material composition and microstructure, as well as their impact on impedance matching and attenuation capabilities. Finally, the current challenges and future development directions of CNT-based MAMs are envisioned. This review aims to provide researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the design technologies of CNT-based MAMs and promote their further innovation. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anisotropic cellulose nanofiber (CNF)/carbon nanotube (CNT) aerogels hold a great promise in directional applications due to their distinct xylem-like aligned penetrating pore structures. The aspect ratio of CNF plays a crucial role in the pore structures of aerogels, directly dominating the final macroscopic properties of materials. Herein, three types of CNF with different aspect ratios were extracted through the 2,2,6,6-tetrmethylpiperidine-1-oxyl radical (TEMPO) oxidation process by changing the doses of oxidant. The corresponding anisotropic CNF/CNT aerogels were prepared by the unidirectional freeze-drying method and then their pore morphologies and properties were investigated in detail. The resulting aerogel with the shortest aspect ratio of CNF exhibited the densest porous structure, thereby obtaining the highest compressive strength of 110 kPa and elastic modulus of 383 kPa, while that containing the longest CNF possessed the highest thermal conductivity coefficient of 0.17 W m−1 K−1 and the worst thermal insulation. This research explored the relationship between the properties of the CNF/CNT aerogels and devisable pore structures caused by various aspect ratios of CNF, thus providing a new insight into the development of CNF/CNT aerogels with tunable performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]