Double conductive network enhanced multifunctional foam-based devices for wearable military suits

The proliferation of electronic devices and signal jamming technologies in modern warfare poses a substantial threat to the survivability and communication efficiency of traditional military equipment. The development of smart wearable military gear aims to improve electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, infrared stealth, and intelligent sensing capabilities, thereby addressing challenges in complex electromagnetic environments. Herein, a lightweight, multifunctional wearable military suit based on carbon nanotube (CNT)/silver nanowire (AgNW) composite foam was fabricated using a combination of electroplating and vacuum-assisted dip-coating techniques. Benefiting from the excellent conductive network and unique multi-scale interconnected framework, the composite foam demonstrated high electrical conductivity (333.3 S/m), low density (0.07 g/cm³), and exceptional EMI shielding (50.12 dB). More importantly, an assembled smart glove could be employed to establish military gesture recognition systems, thereby improving command accuracy and efficiency when integrated with sensors. When as a smart sensor, the composite foam exhibited rapid response time (0.121 s) and excellent sensitivity (0.39 V kPa⁻¹). The application of this technology not only strengthens silent communication capabilities but also paves the way for the development of future military wearable devices, driving innovations towards more intelligent and rapid-response equipment.