Design, fabrication, characterization and properties of metallic and conductive smart polymeric textiles for multifunctional applications

Abstract

Recent advancements and the rapid development in wearable electronics, (e-textiles), sensors and technology, as well as smart human–machine interfaces, have recently propelled the fabrication of metallic and conductive fibers and textiles for a versatile range of applications, including sensors, photonics, optoelectronics, wearable electronics, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and heat generators, ascribed to features such as durability, elevated conductivity, low weight and satisfactory flexibility. Hence, textile materials, hitherto perceived merely as an interface separating the wearer from the environment, perform more critical functions in varying segments, including industrial, sport, medical, security, oil and gas, entertainment, aerospace, military, automotive, technical, agricultural and so on. The development of advanced strategies to construct metallized and conductive fibers and textiles have further provided greater protection and enhanced metallized textile surfaces resistive to mechanical forces, corrosion and abrasion, inclusive of other external parameters. Therefore, this paper presents recent advances in the development, fabrication, characterization and wearable sensors applications of metallized and conductive fibers and textiles, with special emphasis on three forms of conductive fibers, namely metallic, carbon- and polymeric affiliated fibers and textiles, with regard to intelligent human–machine interfaces.