MSU student creates nanotech fabric that monitors heartbeat, blood sugar & blood pressure

Researchers at the Textile Chemistry Department of The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU) have developed electrically conductive fabric using nanotechnology. This fabric could prove useful for sensor-driven applications.

Sensors can be attached to the fabric

Under the guidance of senior faculty member Dr Bharat Patel and lecturer Priyank Patel, master’s student Krupal Gondaliya selected polyester fabric for this research. Dr Patel explained, “Earlier, we used tulsi (basil) extract to create copper nanoparticles, in which we used a conductive polymer as a binder. We coated a layer of these nanoparticles on polyester fabric, which made the fabric electrically conductive. Sensors can be attached to this fabric, and the related application can be connected to a mobile phone.”

Dr Patel added, “For example, a fitness app monitors the body’s heartbeat. If the required sensor is fitted into part of a shirt made from this conductive fabric, it will be possible to monitor the wearer’s heartbeat, blood sugar, and blood pressure through a mobile phone. The fabric itself serves the purpose of a wire. At the same time, it can also block electromagnetic waves, allowing it to function as a jammer. However, its range and capacity still need to be tested.”

Research underway to use the fabric as a solar panel in the future

The team also plans to use this fabric to make solar panels in the future. This would require adding two more layers of nanomaterial coating so that the fabric works as a photo-receptive cell. 

Currently, solar panels have to be fixed in one place and cannot be bent. This fabric, however, will function as a flexible solar panel. The electricity generated from it could easily charge devices like mobile power banks—especially useful for people living in remote areas, trekkers, and travelers. A patent application has also been filed for this electrically conductive fabric.