The use of texture analysis in developing new materials for wearable technologies

Wearable technologies have gained tremendous popularity in recent years, with the rise of fitness trackers, smartwatches, and health monitoring and entertainment devices. As the demand for wearable devices increases, so does the need for new materials that are lightweight, durable, and comfortable to wear for extended periods whilst collecting and transmitting data accurately. Achieving this balance between form and function requires careful consideration of the materials used in their construction.

Texture analysis has emerged as a powerful tool for developing new materials for wearable technologies, enabling researchers to evaluate the flexibility, firmness, and other physical properties of materials that make up wearable devices. The development of new materials for wearable technologies requires a thorough understanding of their mechanical properties, including their texture, elasticity, and durability. These properties affect the wearability, comfort, and lifespan of wearable technologies. 

Texture analysis provides a scientific and quantitative method for characterising these mechanical properties using a Texture Analyser that measures the deformation and mechanical properties of a material under specific loading conditions at different points. The material is compressed or stretched, and the resulting forces and deformations are recorded. This technical approach can also provide insights into the behaviour of materials under different conditions, such as temperature, humidity, pressure, and wear.

Applications of texture analysis in developing new materials for wearable technologies:

• Measuring the comfort factors of fabrics: The elasticity of the fabric affects its ability to stretch and recover, which is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and secure fit. By measuring the mechanical properties of materials, researchers can identify the ideal level of softness, recovery, flexibility, and elasticity that can provide a comfortable and snug fit without causing discomfort or restriction of movement.
• Optimising the mechanical properties of adhesives: Wearable technologies often rely on adhesives to attach to the skin to accurately measure physiological signals such as heart rate, respiration, and motion. Texture analysis is used to optimise the mechanical properties of adhesives to ensure they are durable, flexible, and can adhere to a variety of surfaces.
• Developing new materials for 3D printing: 3D printing is becoming an increasingly popular method for manufacturing wearable technologies. Texture analysis is used to develop new materials for 3D printing that are lightweight, flexible, and durable but possess the mechanical strength to be fit for purpose.
• Evaluating the durability of wearable technology components: Texture analysis can also help in developing materials that are more durable and resistant to wear and tear as the chosen materials used in their construction must be capable of withstanding stresses without breaking or tearing. By measuring the physical properties of materials, researchers can identify the ideal combination of materials that can withstand repeated use, exposure to moisture, and other environmental factors that can affect the durability of wearable devices.

Examples of how materials can be measured using a Texture Analyser:

Texture Analyser measuring Slot Tear, Loop compression
and material burst strength

Texture Analyser measuring Tensile strength,
‘Trouser’ tear and T-peel properties

Pioneers already using a Texture Analyser for Wearable Device development

Whilst we cannot reveal which commercial companies are already harnessing the measurement capabilities of their Texture Analyser to get ahead in this fast-paced development environment, we can highlight some recently published papers from the academic world that use the Texture Analyser.

Highly Stretchable, Self-Repairable, and Super-Adhesive Multifunctional Ionogel for a Flexible Wearable Sensor - Researchers from Beijing Technology and Business University have developed a highly stretchable, self-repairing, and super-adhesive ionogel which is made from a stretchy polymer and an ionic liquid that conducts electricity and is also self-healing, meaning it can repair itself when damaged. They used their TA.XTplus Texture Analyser to measure the strength and elasticity of the ionogel and envision using the material in sensors that could be worn on the skin and monitor vital signs like heart rate and blood pressure.

Mechanically Robust, Antifatigue, and Temperature-Tolerant Nanocomposite Ionogels Enabled by Hydrogen Bonding as Wearable Sensors - The same scientists at Beijing Technology and Business University have also discovered that Ionogel can detect even small movements and changes in temperature. The researchers tested the Ionogel by attaching it to a glove and having participants perform different hand movements. They found that the Ionogel was able to accurately detect and measure the various movements performed by the participants, demonstrating the sensor's ability to be used for various applications including healthcare, gaming and sports tracking. 

Humidity‐Resistant, Broad‐Range Pressure Sensors for Garment‐Integrated Health, Motion, and Grip Strength Monitoring in Natural Environments - Researchers at University of Massachusetts have developed a humidity-resistant, pressure sensor system that can be integrated into garments to monitor health, motion and grip strength. The system, which uses their Texture Analyser to test fabric panels, uses graphene-based electrodes that are resistant to moisture, and flexible, stretchable silicones. Sensors placed on the fingertips are programmed to detect muscle movement and grip strength. The system can also detect shifts in temperature and humidity, and could be useful for athletes and military personnel, as well as individuals with physical disabilities or chronic health conditions. 

All-Starch-Based Hydrogel for Flexible Electronics: Strain-Sensitive Batteries and Self-Powered Sensors - Scientists from Guangzhou University have developed a flexible hydrogel that could pave the way for developments in wearable technology. Combining starch with a sodium polyacrylate solution, the team created a hydrogel with high tensile strength and strain sensitivity, ideal for use as a strain sensor or as a flexible battery. They used their Texture Analyser to determine the hydrogel's mechanical properties and found it had excellent shape retention even after being stretched. The hydrogel is expected to be used in wearable devices such as smartwatches, clothing and in healthcare applications. 

Enhanced skin adhesive property of electrospun α-cyclodextrin/nonanyl group-modified poly (vinyl alcohol) inclusion complex fiber sheet - Researchers at the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan have developed a solution to enhance the adhesive properties of electrospun alpha-cyclodextrin/nonanyl group-modified poly (vinyl alcohol) inclusion complex fibre sheets. The group used their Texture Analyser to determine how sticky the material was and determined that the material may have potential applications in wound healing or medical adhesive products. The research shows the benefits of using Texture Analysers within materials science and highlights the innovative possibilities of electrospinning for material design.

Self‐Healing Photochromic Elastomer Composites for Wearable UV‐Sensors - Researchers from Vidyasirimedhi Institute of Science and Technology (VISTEC) in Thailand have developed a self-healing photochromic elastomer composite material that can be used to create wearable UV sensors. They used their Texture Analyser to measure the tensile strength and elongation of the material, which was then coated with a thin film to improve its photochromic properties. When exposed to UV light, the material changes colour and can be used to detect the amount of UV radiation present. The self-healing properties of the material mean that it can repair any wear or tear caused by regular use, making it ideal for use in wearable technology.

Zinc-ion Engineered Plant-based Multifunctional Hydrogels for Flexible Wearable Strain Sensors, Bio-electrodes and Zinc-ion Hybrid Capacitors - Researchers from Qilu University of Technology have used a texture analyser to create plant-based hydrogels for use in wearable strain sensors, bio-electrodes, and zinc-ion hybrid capacitors. The hydrogels were made from plant cellulose and bacterial cellulose, and were engineered to provide flexibility and high conductivity. The team used their Texture Analyser to evaluate the hydrogels’ tensile strength and compressibility. The research suggests that these plant-based hydrogels have great potential for use in a wide range of applications, from biomedical devices to energy storage.

Discover hundreds more published paper using the Texture Analyser for wearable sensor research 

See other examples of using a Texture Analyser for materials testing 

See how other industry leaders use texture analysis for innovative materials testing to get ahead of their competition

There is a Texture Analysis test for virtually any physical property. Contact Stable Micro Systems today to learn more about our full range of solutions.

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For more information on how to measure texture, please visit the Texture Analysis Properties section on our website.

The TA.XTplusC texture analyser is part of a family of texture analysis instruments and equipment from Stable Micro Systems. An extensive portfolio of specialist attachments is available to measure and analyse the textural properties of a huge range of food products. Our technical experts can also custom design instrument fixtures according to individual specifications.

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