A research team at Sweden’s Chalmers University of Technology has established a method of producing conductive cellulosic yarns that hold promise of integration within smart garments. The team at the Gothenburg-based institute figured out a way of dyeing cellulosic thread with an electrically conductive polymeric material. Tests found that the method gave sample fabrics conductivity that could be charged by the human body during wear.
Specifically, it’s alluded to that body heat could generate upwards of 0.2 microwatts of electricity, given the item of clothing is in direct contact with temperatures of over 37oC for a sustained period of time.
Sozan Darabi, doctoral student at the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Chalmers University of Technology and the Wallenberg Wood Science Center, pointed to the sustainability benefits such a concept could yield.
She said: “Miniature, wearable, electronic gadgets are ever more common in our daily lives. But currently, they are often dependent on rare, or in some cases toxic, materials. They are also leading to a gradual build-up of great mountains of electronic waste. There is a real need for organic, renewable materials for use in electronic textiles.”
In terms of the manufacturing process, the research team has indicated that such electronically chargeable garments could be produced on conventional sewing machines, with the thermoelectric textile integrated on the inside of the item to ensure it’s close to the skin to acquire heat. It’s suggested that by integrating additional silver wire within conductive fabrics, the amount of electricity they generate could be supercharged.
