LIGHT TISSUE: Development of cellulose-based optical textile sensors

The development of smart textiles with interactive capabilities has introduced new ways to embed functional fibers, electrically active materials, and electrical components within textiles. Nevertheless, this ubiquitous integration will bring challenges regarding materials resources and their disposal. To seek bio-based alternatives for the current unsustainable components, the present work explores the integration of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) optical waveguides into yarn structures to create textile-based optical sensors. The pictorial visually showcases the development process of initial proof of concept samples framed on the double-diamond methodology for design innovation. Following an interdisciplinary approach, the research was conducted by combining methods from practice-based design research and empirical material science. As a result, we present novel bio-based woven smart textiles demonstrating their touch optical sensing capabilities and discuss their potential for sustainable smart textile development.