Conductive textiles for wearable electronics

Abstract

We present a new class of conductive textiles, already demonstrated for a variety of flexible antennas and integrated wireless devices. Our approach is based on silver-coated polymer filaments that are bundled in groups of 7s to 600s to form commercial threads (E-threads) for use in regular embroidery machines. Doing so, we have been able to create any shape or form of a surface on a garment with geometrical precision as high as 0.1mm. If needed, our conductive surfaces can be colorful, and further integrated with flexible polymer substrates. Importantly, their conductivity is as good as that of copper, even after rough treatments. Overall, this technology brings forward several new possibilities for wearable electronics.