Printed Graphene, Nanotubes and Silver Electrodes Comparison for Textile and Structural Electronics Applications.

Due to the appearance of smart textiles and wearable electronics, the need for electro-conductive textiles and electro-conductive paths on textiles has become clear. In this article the results of a test of developed textile electro-conductive paths obtained by applying the method of screen printing pastes containing silver nanoparticles and carbon (graphene, nanotubes, graphite) are presented. Conducted research included analysis of the adhesion test, as well as evaluation of the surface resistance before and after the washing and bending cycles. Obtained results indicated that the samples with the content of carbon nanotubes 3% by weight in PMMA on substrate made of aramid fibers (surface mass of 260 g/m2) were characterized by the best adhesion and the best resistance to washing and bending cycles. Such electro-conductive paths have potential to be used in smart clothing applications.

Mechanical and Electrical Performance of Flexible Polymer Film Designed for a Textile Electrically-Conductive Path.

Electro-conductive paths that are mechanically resistant and stable during simulated aging cycles are promising, in relation to the non-invasive application in e-textiles in our everyday surroundings. In the paper, an analysis of the influence of electro-conductive filler, as well as ionic liquid on surface resistance is provided. Authors proved that depending on the tested variant, obtained surface resistance may vary from 50 kΩ (when 50 phr of Ag and [bmim][PF6] ionic liquid applied) to 26 GΩ (when 25 phr of Ag and [bmim][PF6] ionic liquid applied). The samples were also evaluated after simulated aging cycles and the stability of electric properties was confirmed. Moreover, it was proved that the addition of ionic liquids reduced the resistance of vulcanizates, while no significant influence of the extrusion process on conductivity was observed.