Study of Durability of Conductive Threads Used for Integration of Electronics into Smart Clothing

Abstract

In order to improve the tactile perception, as well as other comfort properties of modern smart clothing, conventional electrical wires, which are used to connect integrated electronic components, are more and more often replaced by conductive threads. Conductive threads can be used to replace mounting wires in smart clothing, as well as to make sensors. In order to determine the durability of conductive threads made by different manufacturers, a study was conducted in which the conductive threads, which were integrated using embroidery technique, were subjected to multiple washing cycles. After each washing cycle electrical resistance of connections, made by these threads, was measured and its changes were compared. Suggestions about the use of different conductive threads can be found in the conclusions section of this study.