A recent Medgadget article discussed a new conductive thread that can be embroidered into commercially produced textiles to add smart functions. The thread was developed by Imperial College London researchers who made it machine-washable and stronger and more conductive than previous versions. The fact that it’s compatible with industrial computerized embroidery machines means that it can be easily and inexpensively incorporated into a large range of garments such as t-shirts or face masks.
The new thread, which goes by the name PECOTEX, was created by cross-linking multiple materials with cotton thread with the use of divinyl sulfone. It costs just 15 cents per meter, and can be used to form multiple sensors in a garment. A video with more information can be seen here.
