Healable Cotton–Graphene Nanocomposite Conductor for Wearable Electronics

Abstract

Electrically conductive materials based on cotton have important implications for wearable electronics. We have developed flexible and conductive cotton fabrics (∼10 Ω/sq) by impregnation with graphene and thermoplastic polyurethane-based dispersions. Nanocomposite fabrics display remarkable resilience against weight-pressed severe folding as well as laundry cycles. Folding induced microcracks can be healed easily by hot-pressing, restoring initial electrical conductivity. Impregnated cotton fabric conductors demonstrate better mechanical properties compared to pure cotton and thermoplastic polyurethane maintaining breathability. They also resist environmental aging such as solar irradiation and high humidity.