Recent Research Advances in Textile-Based Flexible Power Supplies and Displays for Smart Wearable Applications

Abstract

Wearable smart e-textiles create a closer connection between the wearer and the garment. E-textiles with functions such as display, self-healing and power supply have great potential for development by making textiles smarter on the basis of wearable properties such as softness, comfort, and moisture absorption and breathability of the fabrics, which in turn realize multiscenario applications. Therefore, this work focuses on the latest advances in textile displays based on inorganic light-emitting diodes, organic light-emitting diodes, alternating current electroluminescence, polymer light-emitting diodes, and polymer light-emitting electrochemical cells in combination with the concept of sustainable development. The research progress of luminescent textiles with self-healing function and fiber batteries as a flexible power source for textiles are briefly introduced. Finally, the applications of multifunctional smart textiles in the fields of healthcare, fashion, personal protection, and intelligent home are envisioned. Problems in energy supply stability, life cycle, sustainability, and safety of smart textiles are pointed out to provide reference for further development of smarter textiles.