3D printing method creates color-changing materials for smart textiles

3D printing method creates color-changing materials for smart textiles

In a leap forward for materials science, a multi-institutional team of researchers has developed a pioneering method of 3D printing cholesteric liquid crystal elastomers (CLCEs), enabling complex, color-changing responsive materials and paving the way for novel applications like smart textiles and advanced robotics.

Elastic Inks For Textile-Integrated Electronics

Electrically conductive printing paste. Image courtesy of DITF TW Special Report Electrically conductive prints on textiles are the basis for functional textiles with electronic functions, so-called smart textiles. Conductive inks and binders must be well matched to ensure permanent conductivity even under external mechanical influences such as stretching, pressure and bending. The DITF are working on new ink formulations that meet these require…

In a leap forward for materials science, a team of multi-institutional researchers has developed a pioneering method of 3D printing of crystal elastomers of cholestric liquid crystal (CLCES), allowing complex and reactive materials in color change and paving the way for new applications such as intelligent textiles and advanced robotics. In [...]