Boost for wearable electronics as scientists print silver on to fabric
07/08/2013
Most wearable electronics require weaving conductive materials into fabrics, which offers limited flexibility and can only be achieved when integrated into the design of the clothing from the start, they said.
Silver-coated fibres created using this technique are flexible and stretchable, and have the added benefit of antibacterial properties.
The technique involves chemically bonding a nano-silver layer on to individual fibres to a thickness of 20nm. The conductive silver layer fully encapsulates fibres and has good adhesion and excellent conductivity, according to NPL.
Project leader Chris Hunt said: "The technique has many potential applications. One particularly exciting area is wearable sensors and antennas which could be used for monitoring, for example checking on patients and vulnerable people; data capture and feedback for soldiers in the field; and performance monitoring in sports. It offers particular benefits over the 'weaving in' approach, as the conductive pattern and flexibility ensures that sensors are always positioned in the same location on the body."
NPL is now looking for funding or collaborators to develop a full printed circuit on a textile, which can be tested for flexibility and robustness, for example by putting it through the wash. Once this has been successfully achieved, the scientists will then look to develop prototypes of practical applications.
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