Chapter 12 - Smart Textiles and Wearable Technology Innovation With Carbon Nanotube Technology

Abstract

Materials research, functional textiles, and apparel design are becoming integrated, which is leading to the rapid development of new types of fibers, fabrics, and garments. These new material systems can enhance the properties of textiles and enable new textile compositions, constructions, and functional uses. The development of composite fabrics using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is also pushing forward the growing field of wearable technology and soft sensor research and will revolutionize materials for use in functional textiles and smart apparel. The addition of CNTs can make conventional fabrics waterproof, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and fire-resistant without changing their inherent fabric function. They can create lightweight fabrics that filter contaminants, change shape, conduct electricity, and exhibit good strength. These additive properties open up new possibilities for the design of consumer-driven smart apparel products on an industrial scale. This chapter discusses the development of new nanotube textile forms used to create functional fabrics. It also considers the possible commercialization of new hybrid carbon nanotube materials in wearable technology, functional textiles, and product design.