Washable PEDOT:PSS Coated Polyester with Submicron Sized Fibers for Wearable Technologies

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Wearable technologies and smart textiles require conductive fibers that are compliant and washable.
• Existing non-metallic conductive materials often lack durability under domestic washing conditions.
• Developing robust conductive yarns is crucial for the advancement of functional textiles.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create washable, non-metallic conductive fibers for smart textiles.
• To enhance the washability and water resistance of conductive polymer-coated fibers.
• To evaluate the mechanical properties and conductivity retention of treated fibers after washing.

Main Methods:

• A one-pot coating method using PEDOT:PSS conductive polymer on polyester submicron fibers.
• Plasma treatment to improve coating adhesion and homogeneity.
• Optimization of PEDOT:PSS doping with ethylene glycol (EG), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and a non-ionic surfactant.
• Washability testing according to the ISO 6330:2012 standard.

Main Results:

• Plasma treatment enhanced coating adhesion, resulting in smooth, homogeneous surfaces.
• Optimized doping significantly improved the sheet resistance of the composite fibers.
• The composite fibers retained mechanical properties similar to the parent fibers.
• The coated fibers demonstrated excellent washability and maintained conductivity under various conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed PEDOT:PSS coated polyester fibers are highly washable and durable.
• These composite materials are suitable for reliable, washable wearable technologies.
• Potential applications include all-organic washable Joule heaters in functional textiles.