by Researchers in the field of textile research have made significant advancements in developing electroluminescent threads that can be used as biomaterials for wearable electronics. However, the integration of these threads into textiles through embroidery has presented challenges. In a recent report published in Science Advances, scientists in the field of biomedical engineering and medicine in the U.S. present embroiderable electroluminescent threads that are compatible with standard embroidery methods.
These multicolor threads, available in blue, green, and yellow, can be used to stitch decorative designs onto various consumer fabrics without compromising their wearability or light-emitting capacity. The researchers demonstrated the use of these threads to create illuminated messages or designs on consumer products, such as helmet liners for emergency alerts and physical hazard signs.
This development provides a comprehensive toolkit for integrating light-emitting textiles into customizable crafts that can be used for leisure wear and other flexible options. Light-emitting textiles have gained attention for their ability to create dynamic and interactive lighting effects, making them ideal for wearable fashion in healthcare and display purposes. However, previous methods of attaching light sources to garments could impact their flexibility, wearability, and washability.
The use of electroluminescent threads that can be woven or knitted has allowed for the integration of light-emitting textiles on a large scale. However, there hasn’t been a versatile tool to directly incorporate light-emitting textiles onto consumer fabrics for a wide range of applications. Embroidery and machine embroidery have been used for large-scale production, but electroluminescent threads did not meet the requirements of machine embroidery due to their high tensile strength and smooth surface.
In this study, the researchers presented embroiderable multicolor electroluminescent threads in blue, green, and yellow that are compatible with universal embroidery machines. These threads were able to withstand folding, stretching, and machine washes, making them suitable for machine embroidery. The researchers demonstrated the creation of machine-crafted light-emitting textiles by inserting electroluminescent threads into consumer fabrics. The electroluminescent layer was coated onto the threads using a mixture of zinc sulfide phosphors and thermoplastic polyurethane, ensuring consistent coverage and durability.
To create a transparent conductive fiber, a transparent nylon fiber was coated with silver nanowires using an adhesion promoter. This conductive fiber had low electrical resistance, high optical transmittance, and mechanical flexibility. The electroluminescent threads met specific requirements, including a tensile strength of over 6 Newton and moderate elongation.
The researchers conducted various tests, including shear rate tests, to evaluate the behavior and properties of the electroluminescent layers. They also demonstrated the durability of the light-emitting pixels by performing actions such as stepping on a rug with light-emitting pixels and subjecting them to multiple laundry cycles. The light-emitting pixels showed minimal temperature changes during the wash cycle, highlighting their suitability for long-term continuous use.
With these developments, the researchers have presented a versatile concept for creating light-emitting textiles with multicolor electroluminescent threads and transparent conductive fiber. These threads are thinner and more durable, offering adjustable colors, luminescent intensities, and pixel positions for greater creative potential and versatility. The researchers also emphasize the need for incorporating safe power mechanisms and insulation strategies to ensure the safety and practicality of wearable electronics, suggesting the inclusion of a circuit driver specifically designed for power supply.
Overall, these findings contribute to the growing field of wearable electronics and provide new possibilities for incorporating light-emitting textiles into various applications, from fashion to healthcare.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
