Stretchable and Self-Healable Fiber-Shaped Conductors Suitable for Harsh Environments

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Wearable Technology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Fiber-shaped conductors are crucial for wearable electronics but lack reliability in harsh environments.
• Existing stretchable and durable fibers have limitations in performance and environmental tolerance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel fiber conductor with enhanced conductivity, stretchability, durability, and environmental tolerance.
• To address the limitations of current fiber conductors for reliable integration into wearable devices.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a multilayer core-sheath fiber conductor (CESH).
• The CESH comprises a self-healable organohydrogel core, a buckled silver nanowire coating, and a protective sheath.
• Characterization of electrical conductivity, stretchability, self-healing properties, and environmental tolerance (temperature, humidity, underwater).

Main Results:

• Achieved high stretchability (≈2400%) and electrical conductivity (1.0 × 10⁶ S m^-1).
• Demonstrated outstanding self-healing ability, durability, and tolerance to wide temperature ranges (-60-20 °C), low humidity (≈10% RH), and underwater conditions.
• Successfully integrated CESH into wearable formats as interconnectors, showing stable electrical function under mechanical stress and harsh environments.

Conclusions:

• The developed CESH fiber conductor offers a unique combination of properties for advanced wearable applications.
• This technology bridges the gap in stretchable and self-healing fiber technologies, enabling ultrastable electrical conductance and environmental tolerance.
• The multifunctional CESH expands the application range of fiber conductors in demanding conditions.