Researchers at Washington State University have developed a 3D printing method for smart fabrics that maintains performance after repeated washing and wear. According to a study published in ACS Omega, the team used direct ink writing technology to print solutions of biodegradable polyester with carbon nanotubes onto fabrics. This approach addresses common issues with smart textiles, which often sacrifice comfort and durability for technological functionality.
“The materials used, or the technology used, generally produce very rigid or stiff fabrics,” said Hang Liu, associate professor in the Department of Apparel, Merchandising, Design and Textiles and the study’s corresponding author. “If you are wearing a T-shirt with 3D printed material, for example, for sensing purposes, you want this shirt to fit snugly on your body, and be flexible and soft.”
Testing showed the printed fabrics maintained electrical conductivity and mechanical strength after 20 cycles of washing and drying. The materials also withstood 200 cycles of abrasion testing and 500 cycles of tensile testing without significant degradation. The research team used Cyrene, a biodegradable and non-toxic solvent, making the process more environmentally friendly than methods using traditional toxic solvents.
Smart fabrics represent an emerging technology with potential applications in healthcare, first responder equipment, military gear, and athletic wear. These textiles could potentially monitor vital signs or provide feedback on movement, similar to the functions of current wearable devices.
The study was led by doctoral student Zihui Zhao as part of a dissertation, with partial funding from the National Science Foundation. Liu noted that while this research focuses on the sensing capabilities of smart fabrics, developing complete functional smart wearables will require additional work on power sources and data transmission technologies.
Source: news.wsu.edu