Wet Spinning/UV Dual-Curing enabled 3D printable fiber for intelligent electronic devices

Abstract

Conductive fibers are widely used in wearable sensors and implantable devices in real life due to their excellent properties of softness and lightweight. However, most conductive fibers obtained through the simple blending of polymer elastomers and inorganic conductive particles often leads to issues such as uneven conductor distribution and poor mechanical performance. Herein, the composite fiber consists of deep eutectic solvents (composed of choline chloride and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) and thermoplastic polyurethane was prepared by wet spinning/ ultraviolet dual-curing method. The uniform distribution of deep eutectic solvents and the resilience of thermoplastic polyurethane ensure that the fiber material can maintain stable signal monitoring capability when subject to various strains over the long term. The composite fiber as motion sensor with an ultra-wide operating range (0–710 %), fast response time (186 ms), long lifetime (stable after 5 months), wide temperature range and excellent weather resistance. It is worth mention that the dual curing process combined with 3D printing technology, allows for the fabrication of flexible sensors in a variety of shapes. 3D printing sensors can be produced underwater to achieve different sensitivities, enabling customization to meet the requirements of applications. This innovative study holds tremendous potential for the next generation of flexible electronic products, such as human motion monitoring and information transmission.