Characterization of stretchable SWCNTs/Lycra fabric electrode with dyeing process

Abstract

Stretchable electronics, as a promising research frontier, has achieved progress in a variety of sophisticated applications. The realization of stretchable electronics frequently involves the demand for a stretchable electrode as an electrical circuit. However, it still remains a challenge to fabricate high performance stretchable electrode. Here, we present a facile, cost-effective, and scalable method for manufacturing stretchable composite fabric with a “dyeing and drying” process: Lycra fabric was immersed in SWCNTs ink with 100% pre-strain. The composite fabric possesses a small sheet resistance (65 ohms/□), which remains 65 ohms/□ at 35% tensile strain. In addition, the conductivity of the composite fabric (initial sheet resistance of 65 ohms/□) remains perfectly stable after 500 stretching events. LED is integrated efficiently utilizing the composite fabric as a stretchable electric wiring system, demonstrating the potential applications in stretchable electronics.