Smart fabrics can act as health monitors and wearable power banks

The future of clothing is moving far beyond simple fashion. Researchers at the University of Georgia are exploring the integration of MXenes — microscopic, two-dimensional metal compounds — into everyday fabrics to create highly advanced smart textiles.

Unlike older technologies relying on stiff metallic wires or carbon-based materials that can be toxic to living cells, MXenes easily mix with water and bond seamlessly with fibers. This creates a flexible, highly conductive material that maintains the breathable comfort of conventional clothing while blocking unwanted electromagnetic signals.

One important thing this material can be used for is continuous health monitoring. These intelligent fabrics can track physiological data in real time, allowing medical professionals in the United States to remotely monitor patients and receive instant alerts regarding irregular heart rates, blood pressure, or body temperature changes. Furthermore, the coatings possess inherent bacteria-fighting properties, making them exceptionally useful in hospital settings to prevent contamination on medical textiles.

In addition to medical applications, these smart garments can be engineered to function as wearable power banks. By integrating extremely thin, flexible energy-harvesting and storage layers directly into the fabric, the clothing captures power from the sun. This solar energy not only operates the embedded biometric sensors but can also be used to charge external devices, potentially allowing users to plug their cellphones or smartwatches directly into their shirts.

Despite these revolutionary capabilities, the technology faces practical hurdles before widespread commercialization. The microscopic metals lose effectiveness when exposed to oxygen or water, presenting significant challenges for the long-term washability of the garments. Additionally, current production methods rely on energy-intensive processing. Researchers are actively working to mitigate these degradation issues and develop more sustainable, eco-friendly manufacturing techniques to ensure these multifunctional fabrics are both durable and environmentally responsible.

Source(s) ACS Omega

Related Articles Chibuike Okpara - Tech Writer - 442 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2024 I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, "Why not get into writing tech articles?" It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a 'bookworm' of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.

Expert Reviews and News on Laptops, Smartphones and Tech Innovations News > News Archive > Newsarchive 2026 03 > Smart fabrics can act as health monitors and wearable power banks Chibuike Okpara, 2026-03- 9 (Update: 2026-03- 9)