On the Enhancement of the Long-Term Washability of E-Textile Realized with Electrically Conductive Graphene-Based Inks

This research explores the development of highly durable, flexible electronic textiles (e-textiles) for wearable electronics, focusing on improving their washability and performance. A conductive graphene-based ink is screen-printed onto a polyester textile. Water-based polyurethane (PU) coatings with variable crosslinker ratios and thickener are applied to solve washability issues. The results show that PU coatings significantly enhance the electrical stability and durability of printed pathways after multiple washing cycles. The conductivity remains intact after 120 washing cycles, indicating that the final properties of the e-textile, which contains 6 wt% thickener and 3 wt% crosslinker, provide effective water protection. The results highlight the promise of these coated e-textiles for wearable electronics applications, especially in the occupational and healthcare sectors, where long-term flexibility, washability are critical.