Wear Comfort Research Articles

Bioinspired breathable biodegradable bioelastomer-based flexible wearable electronics for high-sensitivity human-interactive sensing

Flexible wearable electronic sensors are regarded to facilitate revolutionary changes in human's daily life for their great promise in multifunctional artificial electronic skins, personalized healthcare monitoring, and smart human–machine interaction. However, there remains great challenges to simultaneously achieve high sensitivity, broad sensing range and robust cyclic stability for high-performance personal diagnostic healthcare monitoring, excellent breathability for comfortable wearing, as well as environmentally friendly biodegradability for reducing electronic wastes. Herein, bioinspired by three-dimensional network structure of ant nest with high specific surface area, interconnected channels, and robust ventilation, a wearable, breathable, and biodegradable electronic sensor is prepared from facile face-to-face assembly of breathable biodegradable MXene-coated poly(1,8-octanediol-co-polycaprolactone citrate) elastomer sponge (MXene@POPLC), and an MXene ink-printed interdigitated electrode-coated breathable electrospun film. The as-obtained flexible electronic sensor exhibits high sensitivity (up to 246.3 kPa−1), broad sensing range (up to 333.3 kPa), reliable cycling stability (∼20,000 cycles), fast response (10 ms)/recovery time, robust breathability, excellent biocompatibility, facile biodegradability, and wireless wearable human–machine interfacing. Therefore, this line of research work opens up a novel avenue for the preparation of multifunctional wearable, breathable, and biodegradable electronics to hold great promise in smart healthcare monitoring, intelligent human–machine interaction, smart personal protection and next-generation artificial skin.

Antibacterial Defective‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐Based Flexible Electronics as Stress‐Strain and NO2 Gas Sensors

AbstractIntelligent wearable sensors play a crucial role in the detection of toxic gases and monitoring physiological signals, thereby effectively ensuring environmental and personal health safety. Nonetheless, achieving the requirements for antibacterial properties, comfortable wear, and multifunctional detection remains a major challenge. In this study, a novel Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor is developed by in situ growth of zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) and polypyrrole (PPY) on bacterial cellulose (BC), followed by water immersion. The Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor demonstrates effective dual‐sensitivity responses to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) toxic gas and stress‐strain behaviors at room temperature. The structural characterization and theoretical calculations affirm that the innovative water treatment method successfully introduces defects into ZIF‐8, resulting in a significant 2.57‐fold improvement in response intensity to 80 ppm NO2. Stress‐strain sensing performance analysis reveals that the Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC‐based flexible sensor exhibited high sensitivity (6.44 kPa−1), rapid response and recovery times (0.7/0.4 s), and exceptional cyclic stability (8000 cycles). Further, the inhibitory effect of ZIF‐8 on common bacterial strains contributes to the exceptional antibacterial properties (antibacterial rate exceeding 99%) of the Def‐ZIF‐8/PPY/BC based on the flexible sensor. This study offers a significant advancement in metal‐organic framework defect engineering and provides an effective strategy for developing multifunctional wearable sensors.

Sandwich-Like Flexible Breathable Strain Sensor with Tunable Thermal Regulation Capability for Human Motion Monitoring.

High-performance flexible strain sensors with synergistic and outstanding thermal regulation function are poised to make a significant impact on next-generation multifunctional sensors. However, it has long been intractable to optimize the sensing performance and high thermal conductivity simultaneously. Herein, a novel flexible sandwich-like strain sensor with advanced thermal regulation capability was prepared by assembling electrospun thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) fibrous membrane, MXene layer, and TPU/boron nitride nanosheet (BNNS) composite films. The as-prepared sensor demonstrates a wide strain working range (∼100% strain), an ultrahigh gauge factor (2080.9), and a satisfactory reliability. Meanwhile, benefiting from the uniform dispersion and promising orientation of BNNSs in TPU composites, the sensor possesses a high thermal conductivity of 1.5 W·m-1·K-1, guaranteeing wearer comfort. Additionally, the unique structure endows the sensor with high stretchability, breathability, biocompatibility, and tunable electromagnetic interference shielding performances. Furthermore, an integrated wireless motion monitoring device based on this sensor is rationally designed. It exhibits a fast response time, a wide recognition range, and the ability to maintain skin temperature during prolonged physical activity. These encouraging findings provide a new and feasible approach to designing high-performance and versatile flexible strain sensors with broad applications in advanced wearable technology.

Effect of knitting structure and dyeing process on drying time, air and vapor permeability

Comfort is the prime need in clothing. It is affected by the properties of fibers, yarns, and fabrics. A good understanding of these factors is essential in the design and conception of functional clothes. Fabric design serves as a manufacturing tool to meet several end-use requirements. The construction specifications and design of knitted fabrics greatly influence the comfort level of the end-use garment. This study aims to investigate the effect of the knitting stitch type and the dyeing process on the clothing comfort of knitted fabrics. For this purpose, five structures were prepared by combining plain, float and tuck stitches: plain jersey, cross miss 1 × 1, single cross tuck, weft lock knit and Lacoste. Then, yellow, and black dyeing were applied. The investigated wear comfort properties were the drying time, the air permeability and the relative water vapor permeability. Tests were conducted on the finished and on domestically washed fabrics. The data obtained were statistically evaluated with Pearson correlation, paired t-test, analysis of variance analysis and the Tukey test. The results showed that tucked fabrics have the longest drying time combined with the lowest air and water vapor permeability. Black variants showed better drying behavior and higher water vapor permeability. Analysis of variance results showed that the structure has a significant effect on clothing comfort. However, the dyeing process exerts a significant influence only on the drying time and the relative water vapor permeability. The paired t-test results indicate that the domestic washing cycles significantly change the drying time and the air permeability of knitted fabrics.

High-Performance All-Textile Triboelectric Nanogenerator toward Intelligent Sports Sensing and Biomechanical Energy Harvesting.

Merging textiles with advanced energy harvesting technology via triboelectric effects brings novel insights into self-powered wearable textile electronics. However, fabrication of a comfortable textile-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with high outputs remains challenging. Herein, we propose a highly flexible, tailorable, single-electrode all-textile TENG (t-TENG) with both wear comfort and high outputs. A dielectric modulated porous composite coating containing poly(vinylidene fluoride)-hexafluoropropylene copolymer and barium titanate nanoparticles is constructed on conductive fabric to counterpart with highly positive glass fiber fabric through knotted yarn bonding, maintaining the superiority of textiles and strong triboelectricity. Through the synergistic optimization of charge storage via dielectric modulation and charge dissipation offset by electrical poling, remarkable outputs (261 V, 1.5 μA, and 12.7 nC) are obtained from a miniaturized, lightweight t-TENG (2 × 2 cm2, 130 mg) with an instantaneous power density of 654.48 mW·m-2, as well as excellent electrical robustness and device durability over 20,000 cycles. The t-TENG also exhibits a high sensitivity of 3.438 V·kPa-1 in the force region (1-10 N), demonstrating great potential in TENG-based intelligent sports sensing applications for monitoring and correcting the basketball shooting hand and foot arch posture. Furthermore, over 110 light-emitting diode arrays can be lightened up by gently tapping this miniaturized t-TENG. It also offers a wearable power source scheme through integrating the single-electrode device into clothing and utilizing the skin as the grounded electrode, revealing its ease of integration and biomechanical energy harvesting capability. This work provides an attractive paradigm for next-generation textile electronics with well-balanced device performance and wear comfort.

The influence of oral cavity physiological parameters: temperature, pH, and swelling on the performance of denture adhesives - in vitro study

BackgroundThe various physical and chemical conditions within the oral cavity are hypothesized to have a significant influence on the behavior of denture adhesives and therefore the overall comfort of denture wearers. As such, this study aims to understand the influence of oral cavity physiological parameters such as temperature (17 to 52 °C), pH (2, 7, 10), and denture adhesive swelling due to saliva (20–120%) on the behavior of denture adhesives. This study further aims to emphasize the need for a collective approach to modelling the in-situ behavior of denture adhesives.MethodsRheological measurements were carried out using the Super Polygrip Ultra fresh brand denture adhesive cream to evaluate its storage modulus (G´) and loss modulus (G´´) values at a range of physiologically relevant temperatures, pH values, and degrees of swelling, to represent and characterize the wide variety of conditions that occur within the oral cavity.ResultsRheological data was recorded with respect to variation of temperature, pH, and swelling. Overall, it can be seen that the physiological conditions of the oral cavity have an influence on the rheological properties of the denture adhesive cream. Specifically, our data indicates that the adhesive’s mechanical properties are weakly influenced by pH, but do change with respect to the temperature in the oral cavity and the swelling rate of the adhesive.ConclusionsOur results suggest that the collective inter-play of the parameters pH, temperature and swelling ratio have an influence on the behavior of the denture adhesive. The results clearly highlight the need for developing a multi-parameter viscoelastic material model to understand the collective influence of physiological parameters on the performance of denture adhesives. Multi-parameter models can also potentially be utilized in numerically simulating denture adhesives using finite element simulations.

The effects of head mounted weight on comfort for helmets and headsets, with a definition of "comfortable wear time".

There are difficult tradeoffs when designing head-mounted equipment such as helmets, lights, cameras, or virtual or augmented reality displays. Increased functionality and battery life adds weight, which in turn reduces comfort. A successful product must balance both comfort and functionality to achieve its product engagement goals. This study defines "comfortable wear time" as a new metric, and applies it to the domain of headsets in determining the relationship between headset weight and comfort. Sixteen study participants wore four otherwise identical headsets weighted between 500g-600 g for up to two hours each in an office environment. If participants experienced more than "mild discomfort" (>3 on an NRS-11 discomfort scale), the trial ended early, and the comfortable wear time was recorded. Intensity and location of discomfort was rated at trial conclusion, and qualitative feedback collected. Higher weights were associated with shorter comfortable wear times. Not everyone could wear even the lightest headset (500 g) for the full two hours. Qualitatively, discomfort took many forms beyond the expected neck fatigue or contact pressure and included symptoms commonly associated with motion sickness, such as headache and dizziness. Finally, there were pronounced gender differences with females experiencing more severe discomfort with earlier onset. Heavier headsets were less comfortable for the lower quartile of participants -yielding an average of 11 fewer minutes of comfortable wear time per 33 g of weight added. Understanding the discomfort costs from adding weight empowers product teams to find the correct balance to meet their product engagement targets.

An optimal de Quervain's tenosynovitis splint with ergonomic thumb support and evenly distributed pressure

Splinting is a conventional treatment for de Quervain's tenosynovitis (dQt). However, existing splints have problems such as excessive thermal discomfort and poor fit, which have been pointed out in previous studies. This study proposes a new functional splint consisting of both hard and soft materials with the aim of providing wear comfort with a good fit and sufficient stability of the injured hand. Thumb support of the splint is an important component that controls and protects the affected thumb. To develop an ergonomically shaped thumb support, 16 participants with dQt were recruited for three-dimensional (3D) scanning of their hands. The angles of the wrist and the curvature of the thumb were measured using computer software, and the results were used as a reference for the design of the prototype supports. Excessive pressure on particular regions, such as bony areas, may cause discomfort or pain. To ensure the wear comfort of the proposed splint, a finite element model (FEM) was built to simulate the wear process of the splint and hence to predict the pressure distribution exerted from the splint onto the hand of the wearer. The simulated results show that the pressure is evenly distributed over the hand, indicating that patients are likely to wear the proposed splint comfortably during their treatment period.

Revolutionizing contact lens manufacturing: exploring cutting-edge techniques and innovations for enhanced vision and comfort

Abstract This review paper delves into the advancements and innovations revolutionizing contact lens (CL) manufacturing, focusing on techniques and technologies aimed at improving vision quality and wearer comfort. The article begins by tracing the evolution of CL fabrication techniques, paying homage to Leonardo da Vinci’s early contributions. It then discusses traditional methods such as lathe-cutting, spincasting, molded lens fabrication, and the recent advent of 3D printing in CL production. The review further explores advanced CL designs, including spherical, aspheric, toric, and bifocal/multifocal CLs, highlighting their specific applications and benefits. Material innovations in lens manufacturing are examined, with an emphasis on silicone hydrogel CL, hybrid lenses combining different materials, and the development of biocompatible and gas-permeable (GP) materials. Evaluation of optical design efficiency is another crucial aspect covered in this paper, encompassing visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, through-focus curves, reading performance, peripheral refraction, and patient-reported outcomes for quality of vision. Additionally, the role of nanotechnology and surface modifications in enhancing lens properties is explored, along with advances in lens coating and surface treatments, including antimicrobial and UV protection coatings. Nanocomposites of polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and TiO2 showed refractive indices between 1.52 and 1.59, while combining TiO2 NPs with poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) yielded values ranging from 1.47 to 1.53. PGMA-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited refractive indices between 1.47 and 1.50. Furthermore, nanocomposites of PVP-PVA-Ag with silver (Ag) NPs achieved higher refractive indices within the range of 1.45 to 1.49. This article concludes by discussing the challenges and future directions in CL manufacturing, focusing on addressing lens discomfort, improving oxygen permeability and moisture retention, and enhancing manufacturing efficiency and scalability. Overall, this review offers valuable insights into the cutting-edge techniques and innovations transforming CL production and paving the way for improved vision correction and wearer satisfaction.

Fabrication of thermal insulation sodium alginate/SiO2 composite aerogel with superior radiative cooling function for firefighting clothing

Purpose This study aims to evaluate the thermal performance of sodium alginate (SA) aerogel attached to nano SiO2 and its radiative cooling effect on firefighting clothing without environmental pollution. Design/methodology/approach SA/SiO2 aerogel with refractory heat insulation and enhanced radiative cooling performance was fabricated by freeze-drying method, which can be used in firefighting clothing. The microstructure, chemical composition, thermal stability, and thermal emissivity were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analyzer and infrared emissivity measurement instrument. The radiative cooling effect of aerogel was studied using thermal infrared imager and thermocouple. Findings When the addition of SiO2 is 25% of SA, the prepared aerogel has excellent heat insulation and a high radiative cooling effect. Under a clear sky, the temperature of SA/SiO2 aerogel is 9.4°C lower than that of pure SA aerogel and 22.1°C lower than that of the simulated environment. In addition, aerogel has more exceptional heat insulation effect than other common fabrics in the heat insulation performance test. Research limitations/implications SA/SiO2 aerogel has passive radiative cooling function, which can efficaciously economize global energy, and it is paramount to environment-friendly cooling. Practical implications This method could pave the way for high-performance cooling materials designed for firefighting clothing to keep maintain the wearing comfort of firefighters. Originality/value SA/SiO2 aerogel used in firefighting clothing can release heat to the low-temperature outer space in the form of thermal radiation to achieve its own cooling purpose, without additional energy supply. Graphical abstract

Radiative cooling textiles using industry-standard particle-free nonporous micro-structured fibers

Abstract Thermal radiation is a major dissipative pathway for heat generated by the human body and offers a significant thermoregulation mechanism over a wide range of conditions. We could use this in garment design to enhance personal cooling, which can improve the wearing comfort of garments or even result in energy savings in buildings. At present, however, radiative cooling has received insufficient attention in commercial design and production of textiles for wearable garments. Textiles that efficiently transmit the radiative heat were recently demonstrated, but either do not utilize standard weaving and knitting processes for wearable garments or require substantial process modifications. Here, we demonstrate the design and implementation of large-scale radiative cooling textiles for localized cooling management and enhanced thermal comfort using industry-standard particle-free nonporous micro-structured fibers that are fully compatible with standard textile materials and production methods. The micro-structured fibers, yarns and fabrics are part of a hierarchical photonic structure design that renders the textiles highly infrared transparent (up to > 0.8) while assuring visual opacity (up to 0.99). We design radiative cooling textiles with first-principles electromagnetic methods and fabricate them using commercial textile materials and formation facilities. Our “fabless” approach is confirmed by very good quantitative agreement between design and measurements. The resulting fabrics exhibit wearability properties expected of wearable textiles, and lower skin temperature by ≥ 3 °C compared to conventional textiles, which offers the potential for > 30 % energy savings in buildings and increases wearing comfort by significantly reducing the reliance on latent heat dissipation for thermoregulation.

Development of soft wearable robotic gloves to prevent muscle fatigue and enhance work efficiency

This study aimed to develop wearable robotic gloves that can provide comfort to logistics and transportation workers while providing hand assistance and addressing accumulated muscle fatigue caused by repetitive manual handling tasks. Two types of gloves, rivet-type and pouch-type were developed and evaluated using the nine-hole peg test (NHPT) and grip strength tests. Results showed rivet-type gloves had better dexterity, with an 8.14% faster NHPT time, and maintained 85% grip strength compared to 80% for pouch-type gloves, even after fatigue exercises. Wearability tests were conducted by measuring clothing pressure and brainwaves. In contrast to the functional experimental results, the pouch-type gloves exhibited significant decreases in clothing pressure during actuation. According to the difference in brain waves in the frontal lobe region, the beta and gamma waves observed when wearing pouch-type gloves were lower than those of rivet-type gloves, and pouch-type gloves exhibited higher alpha-wave results than rivet-type gloves. These results imply that participants were in a comparatively relaxed state when wearing pouch-type gloves. A wearer’s evaluation survey on the overall design, function, comfort, safety, ease of use, usefulness, and use intention was conducted. In summary, the rivet-type gloves exhibited better results in hand performance while the pouch-type gloves showed advantages in wearability, suggesting a tradeoff relationship between force transmission and wearer comfort. The results of this study aimed to improve the work efficiency at logistics and transportation industry sites and help improve the welfare of workers.

Enhancing bra design for post-mastectomy patients: Incorporating MRI data and innovative textiles for optimal support and comfort

This study introduces an innovative approach to designing a customized bra to the specific needs of mastectomy patients, aiming to reduce the discrepancies in breast displacement and consequently alleviate associated pain. Through mastectomy patient interviews, recognizing the limitations of current mastectomy bras, which often fail to accommodate the unique body shapes and needs of breast cancer survivors, this research leverages Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Three-Dimensional Surface Imaging (3D-SI) to develop a custom-fit bra prototype. The methodology involves the analysis of body shape changes post-mastectomy and the development of a prototype bra that effectively supports prostheses while minimizing common issues such as displacement, discomfort, and skin irritation. The results showcased a pronounced reduction in breast movement in all directions with the prototype bra, further enhanced using a novel cooling textile, improving the wearer’s overall comfort. Moreover, our investigation delved into the potential of integrating MRI and 3D-SI anthropometric data in bra design. By comparing two Prototype bras with differing dimensions but identical design features, we discerned marked differences in their performance. Crucially, the Prototype bra, shaped predominantly using MRI data, reduced breast displacement and evaluated better fit compared to the bra using 3D-SI data. Results from the study indicate that the prototype significantly improves fit and wearer comfort, suggesting a promising direction for future development of mastectomy bras. The findings highlight the potential of utilizing medical imaging data in garment design to create more inclusive and considerate solutions for post-surgical care.

Innovative Stress-responsive Liner Design for Lower Limb Disability

After lower limb amputation or disability, prosthetic limbs are essential for regaining mobility, but skin integrity often degrades due to mechanical stresses at the stump–prosthesis interface. In this study, the finite element method was utilized to predict the areas at the stump–prosthetic interface experiencing the highest levels and distributions of mechanical stresses. The empirical results of the finite element analysis (FEA) delineated the stress concentration sites. Consequently, we devised an innovative liner design tailored to these stress patterns, which was subsequently implemented. The simulation outcomes validated the effectiveness of the liner, demonstrating significant reductions in stress levels at the junction of the residual limb and the prosthetic socket. The results demonstrated that the designed liner was highly effective in reducing stress, particularly in three critical areas: the lateral area of the tibia head (LTH), the tibia end area (TE), and the fibular end (FE). Stress values at the LTH were reduced from 55 to 10 kPa, at the TE from 60 to 28 kPa, and at the FE from 72.3 to 14 kPa. In essence, this liner represents a bespoke intervention, with the FEA serving as a predictive tool that not only identifies critical stress points but also guides the design of personalized prosthetic liners. These findings will improve the structural and functional compatibility of the prosthesis, thereby enhancing wearer comfort and reducing the risk of skin-related complications for persons with disabilities.

Design and evaluation of a wedge-shaped adaptive knee orthosis for the human lower limbs.

The incidence of knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is moderately correlated with age and body weight and increases with life span and weight gain, associated with tearing and wearing the knee joints. KOA can adjust the force through the human lower limbs, redistribute the load of the knee joint, reduce the pain, and restore mobility when the arthritis changes are mild. However, most of the existing knee orthosis cannot be adjusted adaptively according to the needs of patients. This study establishes a biomechanical model of the knee joint to analyze the medial and lateral forces acting on the joint. The new adjustable knee orthosis is designed. It applies the principle of four-point bending to apply pressure to both sides of the knee joint, thereby adjusting the varus angle and modifying the medial and lateral forces on the knee joint. Through structural optimization, the prototype of the knee orthosis weighs only 324g. Utilizing three-dimensional scanning technology, discrete point cloud data of the leg surface is obtained, reconstructed, and processed to create a 3D model of the human leg surface. The design ensures a close fit to the human leg surface, offering comfortable wear. A pressure sensing film system is employed to build a pressure sensing test system, where the knee orthosis is worn on a prosthesis for pressure testing to evaluate its ability to adjust knee joint forces. The pressure test results demonstrate that the knee orthosis can stably provide an adjustment angle of 0-7° and sustain a maximum force of 10N on both sides of the knee joint over extended periods. A self-developed 8-channel plantar pressure sensing insole is calibrated against commercial plantar pressure sensors. Human wear tests on 15 subjects show that during the operation of the knee orthosis, it significantly adjusts plantar pressures, reducing lateral foot pressures by 22% overall, with more pronounced corrective effects observed in lighter participants. In this study, a wedge-shaped adaptive knee orthosis was provided for KOA patients. The four-point force principle was used to balance the force between femurs and tibia and adjust the meniscus contact gap. The orthotic appliance has the advantages of simple mechanical structure, adjustable correction Angle and good wearing comfort.

Synergistic effects of polymaleic acid and di(dioctylpyrophosphato) ethylene titanate on B4C modification in highly filled polymer fibers for improved neutron protection safety and wear comfort of articles

Developing wearable articles with radiation protection safety and wear comfort is one of the urgent issues in that flourishing nuclear technologies are accompanied by increasing radiation threats. However, current wearable articles either display insufficient shielding performance or exhibit poor air and water vapor permeability, which are difficult to meet the growing demand of personal protection in nuclear environments. In this paper, polymaleic acid (PMA) and di(dioctylpyrophosphato) ethylene titanate (DPET) have been used to superficially modify boron carbide (B4C) particles for constructing sufficient hydrogen bonds with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix. Synergistic effects of PMA and DPET lead to enhanced interfacial interaction. As high as 55 wt% B4C/PVA fibers have been obtained with smooth wet spinning. Their multi-layered fabrics display excellent air and water vapor permeability meanwhile thermal neutron shielding. Three-layer B4C/PVA fabrics have 89.2 % thermal neutron (0.025 eV) shielding rate. In addition, 321.1 mm/s air and 2236.2 g/m2·24 h water vapor permeability have been measured. Besides, the fabrics still show great flexibility in spite of the fibers with extreme filling of inorganic particles. This work provides alternative wear articles to cope with the dilemma of radiation protection safety and wear comfort in neutron radiation environments.

Evaluating the Irritant Factors of Silicone and Hydrocolloid Skin Contact Adhesives Using Trans-Epidermal Water Loss, Protein Stripping, Erythema, and Ease of Removal.

A composite silicone skin adhesive material was designed to improve its water vapor permeability to offer advantages to wearer comfort compared to existing skin adhesive dressings available (including perforated silicone and hydrocolloid products). The chemical and mechanical properties of this novel dressing were analyzed to show that it has a high creep compliance, offering anisotropic elasticity that is likely to place less stress on the skin. A participant study was carried out in which 31 participants wore a novel silicone skin adhesive (Sil2) and a hydrocolloid competitor and were monitored for physiological response to the dressings. Trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) was measured pre- and postwear to determine impairment of skin barrier function. Sil2 exhibited a higher vapor permeability than the hydrocolloid dressings during wear. Peel strength measurements and dye counter staining of the removed dressings showed that the hydrocolloid had a higher adhesion to the participants' skin, resulting in a greater removal of proteins from the stratum corneum and a higher pain rating from participants on removal. Once the dressings were removed, TEWL of the participants skin beneath the Sil2 was close to normal in comparison to the hydrocolloid dressings that showed an increase in skin TEWL, indicating that the skin had been highly occluded. Analysis of the skin immediately after removal showed a higher incidence of erythema following application of hydrocolloid dressings (>60%) compared to Sil2, (<30%). In summary, this modified silicone formulation demonstrates superior skin protection properties compared to hydrocolloid dressings and is more suitable for use as a skin adhesive.

Revolutionizing Lens Technology: Chitosan and Starch in Next‐Gen Ophthalmic Lenses

AbstractThis comprehensive review explores the transformative impact of chitosan and starch in advancing ophthalmic lens technology. Derived from chitin, chitosan and starch‐based materials stand out for their exceptional biocompatibility, moisture retention, and optical clarity. The synergy between these biopolymers has unlocked new frontiers in lens design and coatings, promising elevated performance. The article scrutinizes their multifaceted applications, ranging from innovative lens materials to advanced coatings, while emphasizing their regulatory approvals and commitment to environmental sustainability. Chitosan and starch emerge as vanguards, ushering in a future marked by enhanced wearer comfort, optical clarity, and ecological responsibility. This review encapsulates their paramount significance, current applications, and exciting potential, portraying them as pioneers in shaping the next generation of state‐of‐the‐art ophthalmic lenses.

High sensitive humidity sensor based on PEDOT:PSS/CMC-Na coated polyester fabric with directional moisture transport performance

Flexible humidity sensors with excellent flexibility and sensitivity have been widely used in various fields such as human and plant health monitoring and management, non-contact human-machine interaction, smart e-textiles, and industrial and agricultural production. However, many sensors are limited their application due to the problems of unbreathable and poor wear comfort. Herein, a highly sensitive humidity sensor based on flexible polyester fabric with directional moisture transport is proposed. The facile method of coating is conducted by the preparation of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMC-Na) paste with adjustable content and applied to the polyester fabric. The difference of hydrophilicity between the two sides of the fabric caused by the coating helps to directional moisture transport, thus giving rapid sensitivity, while using PEDOT: PSS can obtain the changes of electrical conductivity coming from the humidity. and the addition of CMC-Na not only helps the coating, but also provides hydrophilic groups, which is conducive to humidity sensing and directional moisture transport. The combination of this moisture-sensitive coating and directional moisture transport gives the sensor a fast humidity response time of 0.35 s, a wide humidity detection range (0‐100%(0–100% RH) and sensitivity of 4.15. Furthermore, the sensor can maintain the humidity response time in milliseconds even after being subjected to water washing and friction, indicating its excellent durability and stability.

Optimization the Stab Resistance and Flexibility of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Knitted Structure Fabric with Response Surface Method.

At present, the challenging issue of the compatibility between stab resistance and flexibility of materials frequently appears. Thus, this study proposes a novel method to enhance the comprehensive performance of the material matrix with stab resistance. Based on the stab-resistant mechanism analysis of the textile matrix, the influence of four factors on the performance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) knitted fabric was discussed. And, the optimal process conditions of material for achieving high stab resistance and high flexibility were obtained by the response surface method. A series of experiments proved that among all factors, the fabric structure had the greatest influence on the flexible stab-resistant knitted material. Following that, the thickness of the yarn also plays a significant role. Under the optimal process conditions, the stab peak force of the knitted material was promoted to 52.450 N, and the flexibility was enhanced to 93.6%. Meanwhile, through comparison with products that have undergone the same treatment, there was little difference in stab resistance but significantly improved flexibility. It achieves the initial stab resistance and comfortable wearing softness of the fabric through process optimization. This improvement in overall performance of the textile matrix enables further enhancement treatments.