Reliable connections between electronic circuits remain a challenge in electronic (e‐) textiles, where circuitry and components are embedded into clothing and other soft objects. E‐textiles that can measure physiological signals, deliver medical interventions, or act as a human‐computer interface are becoming increasingly pervasive, and the market for such products is predicted to grow dramatically in the coming years. Despite market predictions, several technical and production challenges persist, and these need to be overcome in order to realize commercial success. Challenges include a lack of standards for materials and manufacturing methods, issues with durability and washability, and incompatibility between textiles and electronic manufacturing methods. Joining technologies are a central part of this, as connecting e‐textile parts in a way that is electrically reliable and durable, without negatively impacting the form, fit, and function of a garment is challenging. This article reviews key joining technologies used in e‐textiles to date, demonstrating that few solutions have been specifically developed for e‐textile applications. Existing solutions are mostly connectors designed for use in rigid electronics, or textile closure mechanisms adapted to work with e‐textiles. A need for development of new joining technologies for e‐textiles, as well as further research into the performance of existing methods is highlighted.
This article focuses on the design and fabrication of flexible textile-based protein sensors to be embedded in wound dressings. Chronic wounds require continuous monitoring to prevent further complications and to determine the best course of treatment in the case of infection. As proteins are essential for the progression of wound healing, they can be used as an indicator of wound status. Through measuring protein concentrations, the sensor can assess and monitor the wound condition continuously as a function of time. The protein sensor consists of electrodes that are directly screen printed using both silver and carbon composite inks on polyester nonwoven fabric which was deliberately selected as this is one of the common backing fabric types currently used in wound dressings. These sensors were experimentally evaluated and compared to each other by using albumin protein solution of pH 7. A comprehensive set of cyclic voltammetry measurements was used to determine the optimal sensor design the measurement of protein in solution. As a result, the best sensor design is comprised of silver conductive tracks but a carbon layer as the working and counter electrodes at the interface zone. This design prevents the formation of silver dioxide and protects the sensor from rapid decay, which allows for the recording of consecutive measurements using the same sensor. The chosen printed protein sensor was able to detect bovine serum albumin at concentrations ranging from 30 to 0.3 mg/mL with a sensitivity of $$0.0026 \mu $$
0.0026
μ
A/M. Further testing was performed to assess the sensor’s ability to identify BSA from other interferential substances usually present in wound fluids and the results show that it can be distinguishable.
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