Wearable circuit materials can survive 100 wash cycles

The DuPont materials have been used to create thin, form-fitting circuits that can be seamlessly bonded with many standard fabrics, allowing for comfort and freedom in wearable electronic design.

A third party evaluation of fabrics that incorporate the materials, creating thin electronic circuits, have shown them to be durable and capable of withstanding up to 100 wash cycles. These DuPont materials can be used in many common manufacturing processes to produce smart clothing, including fitness and outerwear, without significant investment.

DuPont plans to offer a full material suite of conductors, encapsulants, and sensors for use in wearable electronics applications. The suite will include the PE872 stretchable conductor, which is washable with encapsulation, and the PE772 stretchable, washable dielectric encapsulant.

“We believe that the line of DuPont stretchable electronic inks can be used in wearable electronics applications to make clothing more capable and comfortable,” said Michael Burrows, Segment Manager, DuPont Microcircuit Materials.  “Imagine how smart athletic wear could help contribute to healthier, more active lifestyles by continuously monitoring vital information such as heart and breathing rates, calories burned and even stress level.”