POS7-0839
Structure-Controlled Percolation Networks in Monolithic Stretchable Functional Fibers for Wearable Electronics
Topic
S7. Innovations in Polymeric Composites: From Design and Processing to Industrial Applications
When and Where
Oct 1, 2026
08:30 - 09:30
Room 301 (Grand Ballroom)
Session Chairs
Jinkee HONG
Ki Su KIM
Presenter(s)
Yeonseo Lee (KU-KIST)
Co-Author(s)
Abstract
Fiber-shaped electronics are essential for wearable monitoring due to their integration into textiles. However, achieving both high sensitivity for strain sensing and stable interconnectivity within a single, monolithic platform remains a challenge. Traditional multi-fiber assemblies introduce Young's modulus mismatches, leading to high resistance and delamination. To address these interface failures, we present a novel strategy to fabricate monolithic function-tunable fibers (FTFs) with controlled electromechanical properties via a vertical encapsulation-induced densification mechanism. The conductive framework is constructed by engineering an asymmetric silver nanowire dual-layer on an polyurethane fiber core through sequential dip-coating, utilizing a dilute network for stress relaxation and a concentrated layer for high-efficiency charge transport (1.89
104 S cm-1). Localized control over electromechanical sensitivity is achieved by modulating the number of Ecoflex encapsulation layers. A single protective layer yields the strain sensor (SS) configuration, which displays a high gauge factor (GF) of 93.2 beyond 50% strain and a fast response time (<150 ms), enabling subtle motion detection down to 1% strain. Conversely, a double encapsulation layer applies a continuous compressive load that mechanically restricts crack propagation, reconfiguring the network into a highly densified state. This creates a strain-insensitive conductive thread (CT) domain featuring a suppressed GF of 6.46 even under 90% strain—marking a 14-fold reduction in sensitivity. This junction-less platform completely eliminates physical boundaries, ensuring exceptional durability. The fiber preserves electrical continuity over 100 stretching cycles, heating up to 100 °C, and 7 laundering cycles at 800 rpm. The feasibility is demonstrated through an underwater LED switch and a waterproof NFC antenna. This method provides a compelling paradigm for durable smart textile.
104 S cm-1). Localized control over electromechanical sensitivity is achieved by modulating the number of Ecoflex encapsulation layers. A single protective layer yields the strain sensor (SS) configuration, which displays a high gauge factor (GF) of 93.2 beyond 50% strain and a fast response time (<150 ms), enabling subtle motion detection down to 1% strain. Conversely, a double encapsulation layer applies a continuous compressive load that mechanically restricts crack propagation, reconfiguring the network into a highly densified state. This creates a strain-insensitive conductive thread (CT) domain featuring a suppressed GF of 6.46 even under 90% strain—marking a 14-fold reduction in sensitivity. This junction-less platform completely eliminates physical boundaries, ensuring exceptional durability. The fiber preserves electrical continuity over 100 stretching cycles, heating up to 100 °C, and 7 laundering cycles at 800 rpm. The feasibility is demonstrated through an underwater LED switch and a waterproof NFC antenna. This method provides a compelling paradigm for durable smart textile. 
