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Emulsion Nanofibres as a Composite for a Textile Touch Sensor
David Mínguez-García1, Pablo Díaz-García1, Jaime Gisbert-Payá1
1Departamento de Ingeniería Textil y Papelera, Universitat Politècnica de València, 03801 Alcoy, Spain.
Polymers
|October 14, 2023
Summary
This study developed a novel touch sensor using dyed nanofibers on textile supports. The color change upon touch provides visual evidence of interaction, confirming the sensor
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Textile Engineering
- Sensor Technology
Background:
- Nanofiber-textile composites offer unique properties but are susceptible to damage.
- Developing visual indicators for physical interaction is crucial for smart materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer a nanofiber-textile composite that functions as a touch sensor.
- To investigate methods for creating a visual color change upon physical contact.
Main Methods:
- Electrospinning of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) nanofibers dyed with black dyes (CI Acid Black 194 and CI Solvent Black 3) onto polyester fabric.
- Two dyeing methods: direct polymer incorporation and encapsulation in sage oil emulsion.
- Characterization using colorimetry, FTIR, and SEM.
Main Results:
- Encapsulated dye (CI Solvent Black 3 in oil) produced a color change only upon rubbing, indicating touch.
- Directly incorporated dye (CI Acid Black 194) showed color removal upon rubbing.
- Both methods confirmed the touch-sensing capability.
Conclusions:
- The hypothesis was confirmed: dyed nanofibers on textiles can act as effective touch sensors.
- The method of dye incorporation influences the touch-sensing mechanism and visual output.
- This technology offers a novel approach for visual feedback in smart textile applications.
