Smart Textiles

About

Smart textiles are innovative materials that integrate wearable technology to enhance real-time performance monitoring and feedback. These fabrics are embedded with electronic components such as sensors, actuators, and conductive fibers, allowing them to detect and respond to external stimuli like temperature, moisture, and pressure. They can measure physiological metrics such as heart rate and body temperature, providing valuable insights for health monitoring and athletic performance tracking. Smart textiles are categorized into passive and active types. Passive textiles offer functionalities like UV protection and moisture-wicking without altering their behavior in response to environmental changes. Active smart textiles, however, can change color, shape, or temperature based on user input or environmental conditions. Examples include heated clothing and garments with built-in EKG monitors. Smart textiles have diverse applications across healthcare, sports, and fashion, offering enhanced functionality and comfort by seamlessly integrating technology into fabrics.