Advanced conductive textiles: from nanomaterial integration to wearable applications

Integrating electronic parts with the human body is a complex challenge that requires materials that are not just effective but also comfortable, breathable, and flexible. Porous Conductive Textiles (PCTs) are emerging as an exciting breakthrough, inspiring researchers with their potential to revolutionize smart wearable devices. This review examines the latest developments in PCTs, from basic materials to groundbreaking real-world applications. It covers innovative developments, including active therapeutic systems designed for on-demand thermotherapy, capable of achieving temperatures exceeding 120 °C at low operating voltages (< 9 V), low-voltage (< 2 V) textile actuators with notable electromechanical efficiencies exceeding 6% and exceptional durability under significant strain (over 500%), and integrated energy solutions such as flexible solar cells with power conversion efficiencies nearing 19% and supercapacitors offering volumetric capacitances as high as 1500 F.cm− 3. Additionally, we explore the rapid advancements in PCT-based sensors that demonstrate ultra-high sensitivity, capable of pressure detection at ∼1 Pa, strain gauge factors surpassing 107, and gas detection at < 50 ppb levels, and highly efficient, secure wireless communication for Body Area Networks (BANs). Finally, we address the key challenges related to durability, washability, and multifunctional integration, offering a future-focused view on developing autonomous, smart garments that can self-power and interact seamlessly with the human body.