ELECTRONICS INTEGRATED INTO TEXTILES AND ENSURING SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES IN THE FUTURE

Abstract This is a review article about the properties of manufactured conductive threads, recent application of conductive textiles (i.e., actuators and sensors, piezoresistive pressure sensors) and the challenges for waste management of conductive textiles that we are going to face in the future. Firstly, the carbon black coated conducting threads are less conductive for lower applied voltages, but the threads are sufficient conductive for higher applied voltages. But if we coat the PP, PLA or PP/PLA yarn with PEDOT: PSS solution, it shows good conductivity. Secondly, the textile actuators were made from cellulose fibers that were knitted into fabrics and then coated with conducting polymers, i.e., PEDOT, PPy was used to produce conductive textiles. Then the fabric is inserted in an electrolyte solution containing cations (+), anions (−), and solvent molecules (S). The reduction and oxidation of PPy with external electric power was used to extend and contract the loop successively. Thirdly, Stitched-based SS yarns and a sewing machine were used to create piezoresistive sensors. When integrated into a garment, the sensors can monitor human vital signs and muscle activity. A graphene-based resistive pressure sensor was also reported, which was utilized to monitor human heart rate and elbow movements. As a repercussion, when these products will enter in the mass market, the recycling difficulties will arrive few years later as the current recycling process is not compatible with the waste management of old e-textiles. If we use EPC, RFID and QR code with conductive textiles, it may help to mitigate the waste management problem to a great extent.