New research shows a method of 3D printing electronics into textiles.
Textile 3D printing has been around for quite a while, and it has taken two forms: the first was attempts to print the entire textile using complex 3D models simulating fabric — like chain mail. The second, and now more popular approach, is to print directly on existing fabric.
This is done using FFF 3D print technology by stretching a fabric across the print plate and printing on top of it. The thermoplastic surrounds the fibers and becomes permanently attached to the fabric.
This approach is so effective that Stratasys adapted their PolyJet technology into a dedicated fabric 3D printer, the J850 TechStyle.
But what if these fabric prints could contain electronics? That was the question under investigation in a new research paper, “Flexible and Durable Direct Ink Writing 3D-Printed Conductive Fabrics for Smart Wearables”.
In the study the researchers prepared a new print material (ink) for a Direct Ink Writing process. The material was a mix of a biodegradable polymer and a carbon nanotube molecules, which provide electrical conductivity.
They tested this concept using two types of fabric, cotton and a cotton/polyester blend and a range of different ink formulations.
Their key results include:
- Excellent electrical conductivity was observed, even under mechanical strain
- Good durability through 500 stretch cycles, 200 abrasion cycles, and 20 wash cycles
- Usable sensitivity to motion, enabling potential use as strain or motion sensors
- Use of Cyrene, a green solvent, enhances environmental sustainability
- Hot pressing post-treatment improves surface smoothness and adhesion
The results show that it would be theoretically possible for a new type of DIW 3D printer to print on fabrics to produce not only structures, but electrically active structures. These could be form-fitted to individuals if appropriate measurements were obtained.
This would avoid today’s practice of manually embedding certain types of separate sensors and components in 3D printed fashions. This would also increase the comfort level of the item, and increase robustness.
Of particular interest was their durability findings. This indicates that it should be possible to produce 3D printed fashions that can last in the real world, something that can’t be assured with separate electronic components.
This technology seems promising, and eventually could lead to a new domain of electronic fashions in the future.
That is, if it is commercialized.
Via ACS Omega
