Revolutionizing Smart Textiles: Washington State University Develops Cotton-Based Conductive Fiber
Researchers at Washington State University (WSU) have achieved a breakthrough in the development of a single strand of fiber that combines the flexibility of cotton with the electric conductivity of a polymer, specifically polyaniline. This innovation holds great promise for the creation of wearable electronic fabrics.
The hybrid fiber was tested in two systems, one for sensing ammonia gas and the other for powering an LED light, demonstrating its multifunctional capabilities. The study, published in the journal Carbohydrate Polymers, highlights the potential applications of this material in smart textiles, particularly in the creation of sensor patches with flexible circuits.
Hang Liu, a textile researcher at WSU, explained that the material consists of one section of conventional cotton, offering flexibility and strength suitable for everyday use, and another section made of the conductive material. This dual-component structure allows the cotton to support the conductive material, opening up possibilities for integration into wearable fabrics. The envisioned applications range from sensor patches in uniforms for firefighters, soldiers, or chemical workers to health-monitoring and exercise shirts that surpass the functionalities of current fitness monitors.
While further development is needed, the successful combination of conductive polymer (polyaniline) and cotton cellulose in a single fiber addresses previous challenges associated with brittleness and process ability. The researchers utilized two separate solutions for the conductive polymer and recycled cotton cellulose from t-shirts, extruding them into a single fiber.
The result demonstrated strong interfacial bonding, ensuring the molecules from both materials stay together during stretching and bending. This breakthrough not only paves the way for advanced wearable technologies but also opens new avenues for sustainable and functional smart textiles.