Researchers at NC State University have reported electronic textiles that can "autonomously heal" when cut.
Textiles and fabrics that are electronically conductive are interesting for integrating electronics into a variety of places, such as clothing. Here, the textiles are coated with liquid metal particles, which adhere strongly to the fabric. When pressed with significant force, the particles merge into a conductive path, which enables the creation of circuits that maintain conductivity when stretched. The fabrics are breathable (air can pass through).
One of the most interesting aspects of this work is that the circuits can be completely cut, yet maintain electrical continuity. The shear from cutting causes particles to merge along the cut, thereby creating new conductive paths.
In the paper, we demonstrate that the conductors can be used for Joule heating. The fabrics also have some antimicrobial properties.
The work is published in Advanced Materials Technologies, "Liquid Metal Coated Textiles with Autonomous Electrical Healing and Antibacterial Properties"
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