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Flexible all‐in‐one electrochromic fabrics (AECF) have attracted attention for application in wearable intelligent electronics. However, undifferentiated and disordered ion transport within the AECFs usually cause a slow transfer kinetics of reactive ions and thus restrict their electrochromic performance. Here, a new strategy is proposed to optimize active ion transport based on a well‐designed anion‐selective ion conductor (ASIC) for boosting the anionic AECF. The ASIC is developed by the interaction difference between ions and electronegative functional groups in the fabric substrate. Benefiting from cation immobilization and free anion transport, the ASIC exhibits both high anion transference number (0.75) and ionic conductivity (2.41 × 10−3 S cm−1) at room temperature. Such optimization of anion transport dynamics enhances the efficiency of the electrochromic redox reaction in the polyaniline‐based anionic AECF, contributing to a significant improvement of the overall electrochromic performance. Based on the switchable earth yellow and dark green discoloration, the AECF is further integrated into a camouflage uniform, achieving dynamic environment adaptation in deserts or forests. This work is anticipated to provide some fresh ideas for developing functional ion conductors of electrochromic fabrics toward applications in wearable intelligent electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthcare textiles serve as key reservoirs for pathogen proliferation, demanding an urgent call for innovative interventions. Here, a new class of Smart Fabrics (SF) is introduced with integrated "Repel, Kill, and Detect" functionalities, achieved through a blend of hierarchically structured microparticles, modified nanoparticles, and an acidity‐responsive sensor. SF exhibit remarkable resilience against aerosol and droplet‐based pathogen transmission, showcasing a reduction exceeding 99.90% compared to uncoated fabrics across various drug‐resistant bacteria, Candida albicans, and Phi6 virus. Experiments involving bodily fluids from healthy and infected individuals reveal a significant reduction of 99.88% and 99.79% in clinical urine and feces samples, respectively, compared to uncoated fabrics. The SF's colorimetric detection capability coupled with machine learning (96.67% accuracy) ensures reliable pathogen identification, facilitating accurate differentiation between healthy and infected urine and fecal contaminated samples. SF holds promise for revolutionizing infection prevention and control in healthcare facilities, providing protection through early contamination detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In nature, spider web is an interwoven network with high stability and elasticity from silk threads secreted by spider. Inspired by the structure of spider webs, light‐driven liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) active yarn is designed with super‐contractile and robust weavability. Herein, a novel biomimetic gold nanorods (AuNRs) @LCE yarn soft actuator with hierarchical structure is fabricated by a facile electrospinning and subsequent photocrosslinking strategies. Meanwhile, the inherent mechanism and actuation performances of the as‐prepared yarn actuator with interleaving network are systematically analyzed. Results demonstrate that thanks to the unique "like‐spider webs" structure between fibers, high molecular orientation within the LCE microfibers and good flexibility, they can generate super actuation strain (≈81%) and stable actuation performances. Importantly, benefit from the robust covalent bonding at the organic–inorganic interface, photopolymerizable AuNRs molecules are uniformly introduced into the polymer backbone of electrospun LCE yarn to achieve tailorable shape‐morphing under different light intensity stimulation. As a proof‐of‐concept illustration, light‐driven artificial muscles, micro swimmers, and hemostatic bandages are successfully constructed. The research disclosed herein can offer new insights into continuous production and development of LCE‐derived yarn actuator that are of paramount significance for many applications from smart fabrics to flexible wearable devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this study were to design, investigate, and compare different designs of coupling circuits for textronic RFID transponders, particularly focusing on magnetic coupling between an antenna and a chip. The configuration of the inductively coupled antenna module and the microelectronic module housing the chip can be varied in several ways. This article explores various geometries of coupling circuits and assesses the effects of altering their dimensions on mutual inductance, chip voltage, and the transponder's read range. The investigation comprised an analytical description of inductive coupling, calculations of mutual inductance and chip voltage based on simulation models of transponders, and laboratory measurements of the read range for selected configurations. The results obtained from this study demonstrate that various designs of textile transponders are capable of achieving satisfactory read ranges, with some configurations extending beyond 10 m. This significant range provides clothing designers with the flexibility to select transponder designs that best meet their specific aesthetic and functional requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of wearable electronics, the urge to devise new and flexible energy storage devices to power up wearable systems has steadily risen over the past few decades. Wearable fabric-based supercapacitors have emerged as a fantastic solution for powering up these systems. Functionalizing fabric surfaces with electroactive materials has proven to be the ideal way to fabricate high-performance wearable supercapacitors. In this review, the recent progress in functional fabric-based wearable supercapacitors is summarized. The article begins with the introduction of different fabric structures and outlining the functional materials implemented in wearable supercapacitors. The emphasis shifts toward summarizing the fabrication of functional fabric-based electrodes according to different fabric architectures. Then, different novel fabric-based supercapacitor configurations, the current state of integration, and the durability of such devices are analyzed. The review is concluded by emphasizing the existing drawbacks, envisaging potential applications, and, most importantly, the future perspective of the technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to demonstrate progress in textronic UHF RFID transponder (RFIDtex tag) technology. The fundamental idea behind the RFIDtex tag design involves galvanic separation between circuits of the sewn antenna and the chip, which are electromagnetically coupled through a system of inductive loops. To advance the development of this concept, it is crucial to detect factors affecting the performance of the transponders. To achieve this goal, a mathematical model of the textronic UHF RFID transponder was developed. It involves relationships that describe the impedance of each element, the mutual inductance of the loops, and the chip voltage, and it enables the exploration of the influence of these variables on general parameters such as impedance matching and read range. Various analytical and numerical approaches were considered to obtain the value of the mutual inductance of the loops. The dimensions and geometry of the antenna, as well as the matching circuit in the microelectronic module, were taken into account. Based on the mathematical model, it was determined that mutual inductance strongly affects the chip voltage for frequencies higher than 800 MHz. The calculations from the mathematical model were compared with numerical simulations. Experimental studies were also conducted to investigate how the transponder performance is affected by either the distance between the centers of the loops or the conductivity of the threads used to embroider the antenna. The measurement results allowed us to conclude that even small imperfections in the manufacturing of the transponder, which slightly increase the vertical or horizontal distance between the centers of the loops, cause a dramatic decrease in the mutual inductance and coupling coefficient, significantly impacting the transponder's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textiles have been pivotal to economies and social relationships throughout history. In today’s world, there is an unprecedented demand for smart materials. The advent of smart textile fabrics, crafted from high-quality, high-performance fibers, has enabled the incorporation of specific functions into clothing and apparel brands. Notably, the rise of smart fabrics is evident in astronaut suits designed to regulate temperature and control muscle vibrations. Moreover, the scope of these products has expanded beyond everyday wear, encompassing fields such as medicine and healthcare, ecology/environmental protection, and military and aerospace. This review explores the recent advancements and challenges associated with intelligent fabrics, particularly temperature-dependent shape-memory metamaterials. The potential for innovative smart textile materials to enhance traditional fabrics’ overall functionality and utility is immense, especially in domains such as medical devices, fashion, entertainment, and defense. Crucially, ensuring user comfort is a primary consideration in these applications for promoting the widespread adoption of wearable devices. Developing smart textile devices necessitates a multidisciplinary approach that combines circuit design expertise, knowledge of smart materials, proficiency in microelectronics, and a deep understanding of chemistry and textile production. The synergy across these diverse fields is vital to unlocking the full potential of smart fabrics and enabling their broad implementation. By embracing this comprehensive approach, we can pave the way for groundbreaking advances in smart textile technology, driving innovation and progress in the field.

Excessive exposure to solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation causes human health damages, such as sunburns and skin cancer. Thus, the use of sun-protective clothing is a simple, easy, and practical method for UV protection of the human organism. In this perspective, incorporation, coating, and anchorage of UV-protective compounds in textile fibers have been employed to enhance the UV-blocking ability and/or promote functional finishings to smart fabrics. This review describes recent research efforts on the development of UV-protective compound-containing smart fabrics highlighting the UV-blocking properties and multifunctional activities. Different compound class examples and discussions are presented in order to contribute to new insights into sun-protective clothing and future applications of multifunctional textiles.

Textiles have been used in our daily life since antiquity in both economies and social relationships. Nowadays, there has never been a greater desire for intelligent materials. Smart fabric textiles with high-quality and high-performance fiber manufacturing with specific functions represented by clothing and apparel brands (such as astronaut suits that can regulate temperature and control muscle vibrations) are becoming increasingly prominent. Product applications also extend from the field of life clothing to the medical/health, ecology/environmental protection, and military/aerospace fields. In this context, this review proposes to demonstrate the recent advances and challenges regarding smart fabric textiles. The possibilities of innovative smart textiles extending the overall usefulness and functionalities of standard fabrics are immense in the fields of medical devices, fashion, entertainment, and defense, considering sufficient comfort as a parameter necessary for users to accept wearable devices. Smart textile devices require a multidisciplinary approach regarding the circuit design of the development of intelligent textiles, as the knowledge of intelligent materials, microelectronics, and chemistry are integrated with a deep understanding of textile production for optimum results.

Smart textiles with good mechanical adaptability play an important role in personal protection, health monitoring, and aerospace applications. However, most of the reported thermally responsive polymers has long response time and poor processability, comfort, and wearability. Skin‐core structures of thermally responsive fibers with multiple commercial fiber cores and temperature‐responsive hydrogel skins are designed and fabricated, which exhibit rapid mechanical adaptability, good thermohardening, and thermal insulation. This universal method enables tight bonding between various commercial fiber cores and hydrogel skins via specific covalently anchored networks. At room temperature, prepared fibers show softness, flexibility, and skin compatibility similar to those of ordinary fibers. As temperature rises, smart fibers become hard, rigid, and self‐supporting. The modulus of hydrogel skin increases from 304% to 30883%, showing good mechanoadaptability and impact resistance owing to the synergy between hydrophobic interactions and ionic bonding. Moreover, this synergistic effect leads to an increase in heat absorption, and fibers exhibit good thermal insulation, which reduces the contact temperature of the body surface by ≈25 °C under the external temperature of 95 °C, effectively preventing thermal burns. Notably, the active mechanoadaptability of these smart fibers using conductive fibers as cores is demonstrated. This study provides feasibility for fabricating environmentally adaptive intelligent textiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thermal stiffening materials that are naturally soft but adaptively self‐strengthen upon heat are intriguing for load‐bearing and self‐protection applications at elevated temperatures. However, to simultaneously achieve high modulus change amplitude and high mechanical strength at the stiffened state remains challenging. Herein, entropy‐mediated polymer–mineral cluster interactions are exploited to afford thermal stiffening hydrogels with a record‐high storage modulus enhancement of 13 000 times covering a super wide regime from 1.3 kPa to 17 MPa. Such a dramatic thermal stiffening effect is ascribed to the transition from liquid‐liquid to solid–liquid phase separations, and at the molecular level, driven by enhanced polymer–cluster interactions. The hydrogel is further processed into sheath–core fibers and smart fabrics, which demonstrate self‐strengthening and self‐powered sensing properties by co‐weaving another liquid metal fiber as both the joule heater and triboelectric layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews some prominent applications and approaches to developing smart fabrics for wearable technology. The importance of flexible and electrically conductive textiles in the emerging body-centric sensing and wireless communication systems is highlighted. Examples of applications are discussed with a focus on a range of textile-based sensors and antennas. Developments in alternative materials and structures for producing flexible and conductive textiles are reviewed, including inherently conductive polymers, carbon-based materials, and nano-enhanced composite fibers and fibrous structures.

The 4th International Conference on the Challenges, Opportunities, Innovations and Applications in Electronic Textiles (E-Textiles 2022) was held in Nottingham (United Kingdom) on 8–10 November 2022.

Thanks to the high elasticity and loop structures of knitted spandex fabrics, we proposed a smart pore-actuated Janus spandex fabric (SPJSF) with controllable one-way liquid permeation based on manual mechanical stretching. This versatility and adaptability position the SPJSF as a promising solution for addressing the dynamic needs of individuals across various activities and environmental settings. [Display omitted] • We proposed a smart pore-actuated Janus fabric with tunable functions based on mechanical stretching. • It has excellent unidirectional water transport ability, and can achieve cooling in high-temperature environments. • It can also prevent the invasion of external rainwater and provide efficient heat retention in cold environments. • The smart unidirectional liquid transport mechanism was investigated through Comsol simulations. Janus fabrics, exhibiting unidirectional liquid transportation capability to foster a comfortable microclimate for our human body, have become a new research hotspot. However, integrating intelligent, adaptable functionalities into Janus fabrics to suit fluctuating environmental conditions and personal thermal perceptions remains a challenge. Herein, we proposed a smart pore-actuated Janus fabric with tunable functions based on mechanical stretching. Specifically, when the human feels hot and sweaty, they can manually stretch the spandex fabric to "open" its pores (from ∼ 41 μm to ∼ 138 μm) according to the actual situation. Meanwhile, the stretching can significantly decrease the positive breakthrough pressure of the fabric from 9.5 to 0.8 cm H 2 O, which can facilitate one-way sweat transportation and rapid heat dissipation (0.3 ℃ lower than that of the original fabric). Moreover, timely stopping stretching can "close" the fabric's pores, avoiding excessive evaporation-induced chill. For comparison, in cold or rainy weather, the pores of the unstretched fabric are set to be "closed" (diameter: ∼41 μm) to prevent excessive heat loss (2.4 ℃ higher than that covered by the spandex fabric) and safeguard against external rainwater intrusion. This innovative design can maximize human comfort in diverse environments, and the underlying concept holds promise for the development of new-generation smart fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To produce clothes made with engineered fabrics to monitor the physiological parameters of workers, strain sensors were produced by depositing two different types of water-based inks (P1 and P2) suitably mixed with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) on a fabric. We evaluated the biocompatibility of fabrics with GNPs (GNP fabric) through in vitro and in vivo assays. We investigated the effects induced on human keratinocytes by the eluates extracted from GNP fabrics by the contact of GNP fabrics with cells and by seeding keratinocytes directly onto the GNP fabrics using a cell viability test and morphological analysis. Moreover, we evaluated in vivo possible adverse effects of the GNPs using the model system Caenorhabditis elegans. Cell viability assay, morphological analysis and Caenorhabditis elegans tests performed on smart fabric treated with P2 (P2GNP fabric) did not show significant differences when compared with their respective control samples. Instead, a reduction in cell viability and changes in the membrane microvilli structure were found in cells incubated with smart fabric treated with P1. The results were helpful in determining the non-toxic properties of the P2GNP fabric. In the future, therefore, graphene-based ink integrated into elastic fabric will be developed for piezoresistive sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of exfoliating graphite into graphene sheets allows the researchers to produce a material, termed "graphene paper" (G‐paper), conductive as graphite but more flexible and processable. G‐paper is already used for electronic applications, like conductors, antennas, and heaters, outperforming metal conductors thanks to its high flexibility, lightness, chemical stability, and compatibility with polymeric substrates. Here, the effectiveness in the use of G‐paper for the realization of electrodes on flexible plastic substrates and textiles, and their applicability as amperometric sensors are demonstrated. The performance of these devices is compared with commercial platforms made of carbon‐based inks, finding that they outperform commercial devices in sensing nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), a key molecule for enzymatic biosensing; the electrodes can achieve state‐of‐the‐art sensitivity (107.2 μA mm−1 cm−2) and limit of detection (0.6 × 10−6m) with no need of additional functionalization. Thanks to this property, the stable deposition of a suitable enzyme, namely lactate dehydrogenase, on the electrode surface is used as a proof of concept of the applicability of this new platform for the realization of a biosensor. The possibility of having a single material suitable for antennas, electronics, and now sensing opens new opportunities for smart fabrics in wearable electronic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to prepare smart cotton fabrics with multi functions for antibacterial activity, UV protection and electrical conductivity via in situ coating with conductive polymer and conductive hydrogel. Therefore, 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid was synthesized followed by polymerization using ceric ammonium nitrate. In addition, cotton fabrics coated with 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid via in situ polymerization and by the hydrogel that based on poly (3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid) and gelatin which have been performed via in situ gelation process. The chemical structure and morphology of the 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid (monomer) and the synthesized polymer (PFu) were investigated by H1NMR, IR, SEM, TGA and DSC. Where, the treated fabrics (PFu-T and PFu-G-T) are characterized by SEM, FTIR and contact angle. Furthermore, the AC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of PFu, PFu-T, PFu-G-T and blank were investigated over the frequency range of 20 Hz–10 MHz at room temperature using impedance spectroscopy where the electric conductivity values are 1.74 × 10-5, 7.5 × 10-8, 4 × 10-7, 8.24 × 10-11 (S·cm)-1, respectively. In addition, the anti-bacterial activity of PFu-T, PFu-G-T and blank was assessed versus gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria where, PFu-G-T shows activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, PFu-T, PFu-G-T showed high UV protection especially for PFu-G-T.

Background: With cardiovascular disease continuing to be the leading cause of death and the primary reason for hospitalization worldwide, there is an increased burden on healthcare facilities. Electronic-textile (e-textile)-based cardiac monitoring offers a viable option to allow cardiac rehabilitation programs to be conducted outside of the hospital.Objectives: This study aimed to determine whether signals produced by an e-textile ECG monitor with textile electrodes in an EASI configuration are of sufficient quality to be used for cardiac monitoring. Specific objectives were to investigate the effect of the textile electrode characteristics, placement, and condition on signal quality, and finally to compare results to a reference ECG obtained from a current clinical standard the Holter monitor.Methods: ECGs during different body movements (yawning, deep-breathing, coughing, sideways, and up movement) and activities of daily living (sitting, sitting/standing from a chair, and climbing stairs) were collected from a baseline standard of normal healthy adult male using a novel e-textile ECG and a reference Holter monitor. Each movement or activity was recorded for 5 min with 2-min intervals between each recording. Three different textile area electrodes (40, 60, and 70 mm2) and electrode thicknesses (3, 5, and 10 mm) were considered in the experiment. The effect of electrode placement within the EASI configuration was also studied. Different signal quality parameters, including signal to noise ratio, approximate entropy, baseline power signal quality index, and QRS duration and QT intervals, were used to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of the textile-based ECG monitor.Results: The overall signal quality from the 70 mm2 textile electrodes was higher compared to the smaller area electrodes. Results showed that the ECGs from 3 and 5 mm textile electrodes showed good quality. Regarding location, placing the “A” and “I” electrodes on the left and right anterior axillary points, respectively, showed higher signal quality compared to the standard EASI electrode placement. Wet textile electrodes showed better signal quality compared to their dry counterparts. When compared to the traditional Holter monitor, there was no significant difference in signal quality, which indicated textile monitoring was as good as current clinical standards (non-inferior).Conclusion: The e-textile EASI ECG monitor could be a viable option for real-time monitoring of cardiac activities. A clinical trial in a larger sample is recommended to validate the results in a clinical population.

A screen-printed electroluminescent (EL) matrix display on fabric is presented. This work demonstrates the fabrication of a screen-printed multilayer display with a matrix of 8 × 8 pixels, as well as the design and construction of integrated drive electronics capable of operating the EL display and achieving good visibility. Each pixel is 1 mm × 1 mm, which is smaller than in previously reported literature. The EL matrix was successfully printed and laminated on fabric at this higher resolution, improving the visual effect and decreasing the overall display size, and reducing the impact on the flexibility and breathability of the underlying fabric. This proof-of-concept demonstrator EL display shows the potential for more complex pixel displays for e-textile and printed electronic applications, such as interactive clothing, and information displays in applications, such as the automotive field, architecture, and point of sale advertising.

This research aimed to prepare smart cotton fabrics with multi functions for antibacterial activity, UV protection and electrical conductivity via in situ coating with conductive polymer and conductive hydrogel. Therefore, 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid was synthesized followed by polymerization using ceric ammonium nitrate. In addition, cotton fabrics coated with 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid via in situ polymerization and by the hydrogel that based on poly (3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid) and gelatin which have been performed via in situ gelation process. The chemical structure and morphology of the 3-(furan-2-carboamido) propionic acid (monomer) and the synthesized polymer (PFu) were investigated by H1NMR, IR, SEM, TGA and DSC. Where, the treated fabrics (PFu-T and PFu-G-T) are characterized by SEM, FTIR and contact angle. Furthermore, the AC electrical conductivity and dielectric properties of PFu, PFu-T, PFu-G-T and blank were investigated over the frequency range of 20 Hz–10 MHz at room temperature using impedance spectroscopy where the electric conductivity values are 1.74 × 10-5, 7.5 × 10-8, 4 × 10-7, 8.24 × 10-11 (S·cm)-1, respectively. In addition, the anti-bacterial activity of PFu-T, PFu-G-T and blank was assessed versus gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria where, PFu-G-T shows activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, PFu-T, PFu-G-T showed high UV protection especially for PFu-G-T. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Textile-based triboelectric nanogenerators (t-TENGs) are excellent choices of mechanical energy harvesting and self-powered sensing for wearable technology, especially for constructing smart fabrics. They combine advantages of textile for its flexibility, breathability, lightweight and TENG for its ease of fabrication and promising output performance. Many progresses have been made due to the surging interests. In this review, we will introduce the construction of t-TENGs briefly at first, including three dominant types of device structure and the new emerging design based on three-dimensionally textile. Investigation about the effect of textile processing method (weaving, knitting, sewing, etc.) and structure pattern on the t-TENG's performance is reviewed for further understanding and optimizing the device. Several great demonstrations about the washability and tailorability of t-TENGs are presented based on elevated material properties and rational device design, which is long-cherished for wearable electronics. Finally, the article ends with reviewing progresses in integrations of t-TENGs with other energy harvesting/storing technology for a more powerful textile energy source and construction of smart fabrics with diverse functions for emerging applications in wearable technologies. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • Device structures of t-TENGs are divided into three categories for comparison. • Processing technology and pattern design's effect on the output performance and washability and tailorability of t-TENGs are reviewed. • Applications of t-TENGs in acting as smart fabrics to provide self-powered sensing capability are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The portable and wearable instrumented fabrics capable of measuring biothermal variable is essential for drivers, especially long-distance drivers. Here we report on portable and wearable devices that are able to read the temperature of human body within the woven fabric. The sensory function of the fabric is achieved by temperature sensors, soldered on conductive threads coated with cotton. The presence of stainless steel wires gives these materials conductive properties, enabling the detection of human body temperature and transmitting the signal form sensors to the motors on the fabric. When body temperature decreases, hardware/software platforms send a signal to the vibration motors in order to stimulate the driver. The ‘smart woven fabric’-sensing architecture can be divided into two parts: a textile platform, where portable and wearable devices acquire thermal signals, and hardware/software platforms, to which a sensor sends the acquired data, which send the signals to the vibration motors.

This paper presents a printing technology for the design and manufacture of interactive planar speakers. With this technology, sound emission can be easily integrated into various textiles at the design stage with minimal assembly after printing. This paper reports direct-write dispenser-printed sound-emitting smart fabrics, aimed at creative fashion and smart architecture applications opening up new opportunities in product design. Planar spiral speakers generate a membrane vibration and so emit sound when driven from an a.c. audio source if a magnet is in close proximity to the spiral. These speakers can be integrated on fabrics to form the basis of clothing in fashion applications. The speaker designs were printed on woven polyester fabric and produced a measured peak sound output level of 85 dB with a wide frequency response from 20 Hz to 20 kHz. This research demonstrates a straightforward fabrication method, based on dispenser printing, to achieve sound emission from a fabric. The fabrication process requires a processing temperature of 130 °C for 10 min which is compatible with the majority of fabrics which are used in fashion and architecture industries. This paper reports on the theory and the manufacturing technology to achieve direct-write dispenser-printed planar spiral speakers on fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochromic dye-doped liquid crystal microcapsules were prepared via emulsion polymerization and further fabricated into a dye-doped liquid crystal-based smart fabric. The optimal preparation condition of electrochromic dye-doped liquid crystal microcapsules was determined by a serial of designed experiments. Transmission electron microscope images showed that dye-doped liquid crystal microcapsules possessed a spherical core-shell structure with a diameter of about 3 μm. The core loading was around 70 wt% and confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis. The color of fabric coated with dye-doped liquid crystal microcapsules were changed under direct current/voltage due to the Frederick transformation. We found that driving voltages of dye-doped liquid crystal and electrochromic dye-doped liquid crystal microcapsule were below human safety voltage. Whiles, service life of dye-doped liquid crystal was significantly improved after encapsulated by PMMA shell, but without reducing its transmittance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining human thermal comfort in the cold outdoors is crucial for diverse outdoor activities, e.g., sports and recreation, healthcare, and special occupations. To date, advanced clothes are employed to collect solar energy as a heat source to stand cold climates, while their dull dark photothermal coating may hinder pragmatism in outdoor environments and visual sense considering fashion. Herein, tailor-made white webs with strong photothermal effect are proposed. With the embedding of cesium-tungsten bronze (Cs x WO 3 ) nanoparticles (NPs) as additive inside nylon nanofibers, these webs are capable of drawing both near-infrared (NIR) and ultraviolet (UV) light in sunlight for heating. Their exceptional photothermal conversion capability enables 2.5-10.5 °C greater warmth than that of a commercial sweatshirt of six times greater thickness under different climates. Remarkably, this smart fabric can increase its photothermal conversion efficiency in a wet state. It is optimal for fast sweat or water evaporation at human comfort temperature (38.5 °C) under sunlight, and its role in thermoregulation is equally important to avoid excess heat loss in wilderness survival. Obviously, this smart web with considerable merits of shape retention, softness, safety, breathability, washability, and on-demand coloration provides a revolutionary solution to realize energy-saving outdoor thermoregulation and simultaneously satisfy the needs of fashion and aesthetics., (© 2023 The Authors. Advanced Materials published by Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

E-textiles (electronic textiles) are fabrics that possesses electronic counterparts and electrical interconnects knitted into them, offering flexibility, stretchability, and a characteristic length scale that cannot be accomplished using other electronic manufacturing methods currently available. However, knitting is only one of the technologies in e-Textile integration. Other technologies, such as sewing, embroidery, and even single fiber-based manufacture technology, are widely employed in next-generation e-textiles. Components and interconnections are barely visible since they are connected intrinsically to soft fabrics that have attracted the attention of those in the fashion and textile industries. These textiles can effortlessly acclimatize themselves to the fast-changing wearable electronic markets with digital, computational, energy storage, and sensing requirements of any specific application. This mini-review focuses on recent advances in the field of e-textiles and focuses particularly on the materials and their functionalities.

[Display omitted] • Hierarchically interlocked helical conductive yarn effectively avoid the "trade-off" effect between stretchability and conductivity. • The conductive yarn simultaneously achieving high mechanical stretchability and electrical conductivity. • Unique interlocking effect between conductive networks and elastic networks was obtained during twisting process. • 1D AgNWs interwoven 2D MXene yarn exhibits excellent electrical stability under large mechanical deformations. • The ultra-stretchable conductive yarn exhibits smart responsiveness to multiple external stimuli. Simultaneously achieving high mechanical elasticity and electrical conductivity is essentially required for wearable electronics and smart fabrics. However, great challenges still remain to achieve high electrical conductance under large mechanical deformations due to the "trade-off" effect between them. Herein, inspired by curling structure of climbing plants, hierarchically interlocked helical conductive yarn for ultra-stretchable electronics and smart fabrics was developed, via over-twisting silver nanowires (AgNWs)/MXene multi-dimensional synergistic conductive networks that hierarchically entangled with elastic thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) nanofiber networks. High-aspect-ratio 1D AgNWs bridged 2D MXene nanosheets into synergistic interconnected conductive network while interlocked with elastic 3D TPU nanofiber skeleton. Unique hierarchically interlocking effect between highly conductive networks and highly elastic nanofiber networks during the twisting process induced helical conductive yarn simultaneously exhibits excellent mechanical stretchability and electrical conductivity. Excellent intrinsic elasticity of TPU macromolecular chains coupled with its hierarchically helical structure enables the conductive yarn exhibits excellent mechanical stretchability. While the hierarchically interlocked conductive structure ensures the stretchable yarn possess high electrical conductivity which could resist large mechanical deformations during stretching process. The hierarchically interlocked helical conductive yarn could still exhibit high electrical conductivity (1.12 × 105 S/m) even under large mechanical deformations (300%), which effectively avoid the "trade-off" effect. Moreover, the ultra-stretchable conductive yarn exhibits smart responsiveness to multi stimuli (mechanical/electron/light). The helical strain sensor has excellent electromechanical performance with stable GF (1.7) in the 600%–1000% linear range. The hierarchically interlocked helical conductive yarn holds great promise for ultra-stretchable electronics and smart fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A screen-printed electroluminescent (EL) digital watch display on fabric is presented. This paper demonstrates the process of creating interactive printed smart fabrics suitable for a broad range of applications. In order to control the display, a series of tracks were printed that are 400 μm wide with a pitch of 1 mm; these dimensions are lower than the previously reported literature for connections to an EL lamp. An optimized design for a bus bar layer is designed, modeled, and tested. The design improvement reduces the amount of the emitting area covered by an opaque conductor and is shown to have no negative impact on the function of the EL lamp. The design for the EL watch display includes 28 EL lamps on fabric forming four seven-segment displays. The display is the first demonstration of multiple EL seven-segment displays on fabric. The brightness is characterized and compared to commercially available blue EL lamps. The watch segments had similar brightness to commercially available lamps. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This paper reviews the impact of different concentrations of photochromic pigment as well as different drawing ratios with respect to the optical properties of multifilament. Temperature variation may induce very significant and different effects on the behavior of the photochromic system, so there is a special device such as LCAM FOTOCHROM available in LCAM - TUL which helps us to measure various optical properties like kinetics of the growth and decay. The results are showing there is a significant change in the optical properties of polypropylene fibers with respect to drawing ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a planar capacitive proximity sensor fully dispenser printed on a standard polyester woven fabric using conductive ink. Dispenser printing is a new digital printing technique offering the advantages of complete geometric design flexibility and the ability to direct write multilayer devices without requiring bespoke tooling. A dispenser printer is also capable of printing a wide range of ink viscosities encompassing those of inkjet and screen printable inks. Previous research has demonstrated the principle of using proximity sensors for human interaction but none of them are fabricated directly on fabric. In this research, the proximity sensor is dispenser printed directly onto the fabric with an optimised loop electrode design which uses 76% less conductive ink while still offering 90% of the detection range when compared with a standard filled electrode design. The loop design also has the highest detection coefficient (maximum detection distance versus the conductive area of the sensor) of 0.23 compared with 0.06 and 0.1 for the investigated filled and spiral designs, respectively. In addition, the ratio of the track width to the width of the entire sensor is investigated showing 1/16 as being the most suitable ratio for the proximity sensor printed on fabric. Proximity sensors with loop widths ranging from 10 mm to 400 mm are evaluated. The maximum detection distance is 400 mm when the largest sensor is used and the linearity of the sensing circuit is 0.79. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Textiles able to perform electronic functions are known as e-textiles, and are poised to revolutionise the manner in which rehabilitation and assistive technology is provided. With numerous reports in mainstream media of the possibilities and promise of e-textiles it is timely to review research work in this area related to neurological rehabilitation.This paper provides a review based on a systematic search conducted using EBSCO- Health, Scopus, AMED, PEDro and ProQuest databases, complemented by articles sourced from reference lists. Articles were included if the e-textile technology described had the potential for use in neurological rehabilitation and had been trialled on human participants. A total of 108 records were identified and screened, with 20 meeting the broad review inclusion criteria. Nineteen user trials of healthy people and one pilot study with stroke participants have been reported.The review identifies two areas of research focus; motion sensing, and the measurement of, or stimulation of, muscle activity. In terms of motion sensing, E-textiles appear able to reliably measure gross movement and whether an individual has achieved a predetermined movement pattern. However, the technology still remains somewhat cumbersome and lacking in resolution at present. The measurement of muscle activity and the provision of functional electrical stimulation via e-textiles is in the initial stages of development but shows potential for e-textile expansion into assistive technologies.The review identified a lack of high quality clinical evidence and, in some cases, a lack of practicality for clinical application. These issues may be overcome by engagement of clinicians in e-textile research and using their expertise to develop products that augment and enhance neurological rehabilitation practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanowires (AgNWs) are widely used in the field of flexible electronics, but there are still challenges in patterning silver nanowires. In this work, we present a simple and cost-effective method to obtain patterned AgNWs on fabrics. A 3 × 3 LEDs array based on patterned AgNWs electrode can work stably during stretching, bending, twisting and folding. The same patterned method is used to fabricate AgNWs based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and alternating current electroluminescence (ACEL) devices on fabrics. The TENG unit device can sense finger press and has sufficient durability. The 3 × 3 TENGs array are fabricated to sense and display the finger movement and control the mechanical hand to perform specified gestures. In addition, the TENGs array and the ACEL seven-segment display device are integrated on the same fabric, forming a sensing and display system on fabric. The smart system can capture finger movement information and display it on the ACEL device in real time, demonstrating the potential of the smart fabric platform for future wearable applications. [Display omitted] • A fabrication method combined by screen printing, vacuum filtration and thermal transfer was proposed to obtain patterned AgNWs electrodes on fabrics. • The 3 × 3 TENGs sensing array and the ACEL display device can be integrated on the same fabric, forming a sensing and display system. • The 3 × 3 TENGs array can sense finger movements, and display the obtained information on the ACEL device in real time. • The fabric system can be used to control the mechanical hand, thereby realizing Human-Machine Interaction (HMI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrahigh-sensitivity temperature sensors and smart fabrics were prepared based on the new designed fluorane and microcapsule technology, which demonstrates ultralow-color-hysteresis, narrow color-change temperature range, and reversible rich color-change. [Display omitted] • Ultrahigh-sensitivity smart wearable thermochromic fabrics and sensors were designed and fabricated. • Introducing intramolecular proton-coupled electron transfer into the thermochromic field, avoiding color-hysteresis. • Controllable color, adjustable response temperature and high precision temperature monitoring behavior. • Microencapsulation suitable for various substrate and large-scale industrialization. Ultrahigh-sensitivity including both ultralow-color-hysteresis and narrow temperature change is an important requirement of temperature sensors. However, it is an almost impossible challenge for the traditional ternary thermochromic mechanism. Herein, a new class of fluorane dyes was designed and synthesized which was used to fabricate the ultrahigh-sensitivity sensors and smart fabrics via microcapsule technology and screen printing. The new fluorane dyes (M2 and M3) performed excellent thermochromic properties with a narrow color-change temperature range (2.1 °C) and ultralow-color-hysteresis (<0.5 °C). The ultrahigh-sensitivity property is attributed to the intramolecular proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) color-change mechanism. Moreover, the effect of particle size and core/shell ratio on the temperature sensitivity of microcapsule was investigated. The optimized microcapsules with 5 μm and 2/1 core/shell showed overall properties including the color-change temperature range as about 2 °C and the ultralow-color-hysteresis as about 0.3 °C. This unique design concept for ultrahigh-sensitivity sensors has great potential in human body care and other flexible sensors or smart fabrics fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report liquid crystal functionalized smart fabrics fabricated by gas jet spinning or electrospinning. These fabrics retain all the stimuli-responsive properties of liquid crystals. Because they are flexible, self-supporting and have large surface-area-to-volume ratios, these fabrics are ideally suited for an array of sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A planar electroluminescent (EL) lamp has been screen-printed directly on to woven polyester cotton fabric to create a smart fabric lamp. The EL lamp consists of six printed layers and has been produced in colours: light blue, dark blue, and orange. The printed structure has high durability whilst maintaining the flexible and breathable properties of the fabric. The printing process relies on an interface layer developed at the University of Southampton [1] to smooth the woven fabric surface where required, presenting a more homogenous surface than the underlying woven fabric for the subsequently printed functional layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]