Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree

Ph.D.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

Degree Granting Department

Electrical Engineering

Major Professor

Arash Takshi, Ph.D.

Co-Major Professor

Sylvia Thomas, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Andrew Hoff, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Stephanie Carey, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Manoj Ram, Ph.D.

Keywords

Electrodeposition, Hydrogen Evolution Assisted (HEA) Electroplating, Fabric, Laser-burned, Lignin, Smart Textiles

Abstract

Wearable electronics have become a transformative force across industries like healthcare, aerospace, and military applications. However, a significant challenge persists in directly integrating electronic circuits onto fabrics. Addressing this challenge, the aim of this research is to introduce a novel sequential manufacturing process. Initially, a fabric is coated with a customized ink containing lignin, establishing a conductive template through laser burning. Subsequently, a localized Hydrogen Evolution Assisted (HEA) copper electroplating method is applied, resulting in a low-resistive circuit layout. Our investigations encompassed nanostructure analyses using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), Raman Spectroscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing remarkable mechanical stability post-bending, rolling, and washing. Additionally, we conducted comprehensive electrochemical studies, including Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS), to evaluate conductivity changes and passivation layers' effectiveness in preventing copper oxidation and corrosion. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis further enriched our understanding of material composition and behavior. Notably, the HEA method facilitated LED soldering onto the fabric circuit. In parallel, we explored CNT ink and lasered lignin coatings for armbands, emphasizing electrical conductivity and resistance reduction. Results favored lasered lignin, showcasing superior conductivity and structural resilience. This study underscores the potential of sequential manufacturing for reliable wearable electronics, with implications for medical monitoring and beyond, while also highlighting lignin's efficacy in diverse fabric applications.

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