UC Irvine

The growing demand for seamless, comfortable, and versatile wearable technology has shifted the focus toward developing textile-based sensors. Unlike traditional rigid electronics, textile sensors offer flexibility, breathability, and integration with everyday clothing, making them ideal for long-term and unobtrusive use in applications such as healthcare, fitness, and environmental monitoring. This study explores the integration of Laser-Induced Graphene (LIG) into fabrics to create multifunctional smart textiles capable of sensing strain, temperature, and humidity.By leveraging the unique properties of LIG—such as high conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and scalability—this work develops sensors directly onto textile substrates, preserving their comfort and wearability. Comprehensive characterization reveals that these LIG-based sensors exhibit excellent sensitivity, durability under mechanical stress, and reliable performance over repeated use. Furthermore, the integration of these sensors into wearable systems for cross-body biometric monitoring demonstrates their real-world applicability and potential for personalized health tracking. This research also addresses key challenges in textile sensor development, including maintaining uniformity during fabrication, ensuring robust sensor performance under complex mechanical deformations, and optimizing the design for multi-functionality. The findings highlight the transformative potential of LIG-enabled smart textiles, providing a foundation for wearable technology that combines functionality with the aesthetic and practical qualities of everyday clothing.