Towards commercialization of graphene-based end-of-life sensors for fire-protective fabrics

Abstract

Fire-resistant (FR) fabrics used in protective clothing experience a reduction in performance as a result of exposure to various ageing conditions, for instance: heat, ultraviolet (UV) light, moisture, abrasion and laundering procedures. However, there are few visible clues to indicate if the deterioration of the protective clothing has reached a dangerous level. To address this issue, graphene-based end-of-life sensors (heat, UV light, and moisture) are being developed at the University of Alberta in collaboration with five industry partners, including Davey Textile Solutions, Inc (DTS). DTS has the production capacity to manufacture the graphene-based end-of-life sensors, including weaving, finishing, conductive track application, fusing, and product assembly. The lifetime of fire-protective clothing is an important parameter to monitor, and the graphene-based end-of-life sensors are a straightforward, non-destructive, and effective tool for this purpose. The plan is to fabricate, integrate and commercialize the sensors. DTS, alongside academic researchers from the University of Alberta, are in the process of scaling up the manufacturing and testing of the sensors. The health and safety of firefighters will be improved by bringing graphene-based end-of-life sensors to the market.