Researchers reviewed studies about smart textiles and a material called MXenes. MXenes are thin metal-based materials that can be coated or printed onto fabric to give new functions. Fabrics with MXenes can monitor vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure and temperature, and they can also detect movement. Some MXene textiles show antimicrobial behaviour, which could be useful in hospitals.
Unlike most smartwatches, smart textiles can gain power from the sun and store it in thin layers. However, MXenes can lose performance when exposed to oxygen or water and after many washings. They are made with metal compounds and need energy to produce, and scientists are working to make them more sustainable.
Difficult words
- mxene — thin metal-based material used on fabricsMXenes
- textile — material used to make clothes or fabricsmart textiles
- heart rate — number of heart beats per minute
- antimicrobial — stops or reduces growth of microbesantimicrobial behaviour
- expose — put in contact with air or waterexposed
- sustainable — able to continue without harming the environment
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you like clothes that can monitor your heart rate? Why or why not?
- How could antimicrobial textiles help in hospitals?
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