Abstract:

In this study the authors proposed the introduction of chemical sensors directly on textile surfaces in the form of conductive transmission parts using the screen-printing technique. A liquid vapour-sensitive, printing surface made with the use of multi-walled carbon nanotubes was also evaluated. Carbon nanotubes show effective chemo-sensory properties because the chemical agent leads to changes in electrical conductivity. The research concerned the assessment of sensor efficiency for chemical incentives in the form of selected fluids and their vapours. The best sensory properties were observed for polar vapour at a level of relative resistance over 40%. In the case of vapours of non-polar fluids the sensory reaction of the printed fabrics is much weaker – at a level of relative resistance of about 25%. The printed textile backings subjected to the influence of a fluid show an immediate reaction, while in the case of fluid vapour the reaction occurs after a few seconds. Detection of the presence of dangerous chemical agents such as organic liquids and their vapour is possible by means of a structure composed of sensors.