How Functional Yarn Can Be Used in Smart Garments

Functional yarn is a type of yarn that has extra features that add value to the garments it’s used in. These extra features could be anything from abrasion resistance to UV sun protection. The yarn is made by weaving together different kinds of materials and can be used in a variety of knitting patterns. It can be dyed using machine-dye to match the colour of the fabric, allowing it to blend in with the fabric and look natural. It can also be knitted in such a way that it shows off the yarn’s special properties.

The researchers from Drexel University were able to develop a way of coating standard cellulose-based yarns with flakes of the conductive two-dimensional material, MXene. By doing this, they were able to create a highly conductive yarn that can be knitted into fabrics and washed without losing its functionality. The team’s ability to meld function and durability separates their research from most of the work being done in the functional fabric field today.

For example, the conductive yarn can be knitted into a textile that is capable of changing shape when pressure is applied to it. This can be useful for medical applications and athletic wear. For instance, a garment that can detect if it has been pressed against a nerve can signal an injury to the brain or a muscle to send a message for help. The same kind of garment can be used by athletes to monitor their body’s pressure to prevent injuries and ensure they are getting the right amount of exercise.

Another important application of the conductive fabric is to use it in place of wires for electronic devices like tablets and laptops. The MXene enables the fabric to connect to a wireless charging pad, which makes it possible for the device to be charged as you wear the garment. This means you don’t have to take off your shirt or skirt to charge it, making the garment more convenient.

This new kind of conductive fabric has the potential to make all sorts of other smart clothing, from soft garments that sense temperature changes to elastic clothes that snap back into place after dynamic movements. The fabric can even help you stay cool during hot, sweltering summer days, as it’s designed to quickly absorb and release moisture.

Similarly, the durable functional yarns can be used to make clothing that lasts longer. Garments with this type of yarn are less likely to fade or pill, which saves consumers money by reducing the need to replace their garments. They are also being used to produce car, bus and train seat covers that provide safety and comfort for passengers while ensuring the required levels of durability, lightfastness, abrasion resistance and flame retardancy. The yarn can also be used in the manufacture of a wide range of medical equipment, including blood pressure monitors and artificial limbs.