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Unlock Better Sleep: How Dietary Fiber and Microbiome Research Connect to Enhanced Sleep Quality

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How Microbial Activity in the Gut Affects Sleep Quality

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Research indicates that diet, particularly dietary fiber, may significantly influence sleep quality.

Prior studies have revealed associations between various sleep states and the gut microbiome. Notably, a lack of bacterial diversity suggests that improving dietary habits could enhance sleep quality. However, no study has yet identified specific microbial species consistently linked to sleep quality and the exact foods that support their growth.

A new systematic review by Wang Che from China’s Shandong First Medical University analyzes 53 observational studies comparing the gut microbiota of individuals with sleep disorders to those without, encompassing 7,497 individuals with sleep disorders and 9,165 without.

The researchers discovered that the overall bacterial species diversity, termed alpha diversity, was significantly lower in individuals suffering from sleep disorders. Those with insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, or REM sleep behavior disorder showed a notable decrease in anti-inflammatory, butyrate-producing bacteria like Faecalibacterium, alongside an increase in pro-inflammatory bacteria such as Collinsella.

This underscores the importance of dietary fiber, as Faecalibacterium produces butyrate, which provides energy for colon cells, strengthens the intestinal barrier, and reduces inflammation, according to recent studies.

Researchers highlighted that microbial signatures could serve as criteria to differentiate clinical symptoms from other sleep-related issues, thus enabling targeted treatments.

According to Catherine Maki from the National Institutes of Health in Maryland, this study aligns with her group’s ongoing research, which has found a similar connection between sleep and butyrate production from Faecalibacterium.

“Collectively, these consistent findings highlight plausible microbiome metabolic pathways that link sleep and host physiology, warranting direct testing in future mechanistic and interventional studies,” Maki notes.

“This meta-analysis supports the correlation between Faecalibacterium and insomnia,” states Elizabeth Holzhausen from Michigan State University. “However, since these studies are observational, causality cannot be established.”

One hypothesis is that insomnia may negatively impact dietary fiber intake, leading to reduced levels of Faecalibacterium. Alternatively, reduced butyrate from Faecalibacterium could influence sleep quality, as suggested by research findings.

Controlled intervention studies are essential for confirming the causal relationship, Holzhausen emphasizes.

The findings further highlight the vital role of the gut microbiome in our sleep health and reveal potentially significant changes in gut microbial signaling pathways related to sleep-influencing processes such as hormone release, metabolism, and inflammation.

Maki suggests that while it’s too early to recommend increasing fiber intake to improve sleep, there is emerging evidence regarding dietary aspects that may influence sleep.

Avoiding caffeine is advisable, as it may delay the onset of sleep, particularly in high doses or when consumed late in the day. Furthermore, alcohol can disrupt sleep, despite common misconceptions that it aids sleep. Additionally, eating too close to bedtime can impair sleep quality.

Some evidence suggests that certain foods, like tart cherry juice, can improve sleep quality. Improving overall dietary quality and increased fiber intake is linked to better sleep quality, though the specific dietary components influencing this relationship remain unclear.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Using Lasers, Fiber Optics, and Subtle Vibrations to Develop Earthquake Warning Systems

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When the Mendocino earthquake erupted off the California coast in 2024, it shook structures from their very foundations, triggered a 3-inch tsunami, and sparked intriguing scientific investigations in the server room of a nearby police station.

More than two years prior to the quake, scientists had installed a device known as the “Dispersed Acoustic Sensing Interrogation Room” at the Alcata Police Station located near the coast. This device utilizes a laser directed through a fiber optic cable that provides internet connectivity to the station, detecting how the laser light bends as it returns.

Recently, researchers revealed in a study published in the Journal Science that data collected from fiber optic cables can effectively be used to “image” the Mendocino earthquake.

This research demonstrates how scientists can convert telecommunication cables into seismometers, providing detailed earthquake data at the speed of light. Experts noted that this rapidly advancing technology has the potential to enhance early earthquake warning systems, extending the time available for individuals to take safety measures, and could be critical for predicting major earthquakes in the future.

James Atterholt, a research geophysicist for the US Geological Survey and lead author of the study, stated, “This is the first study to image the seismic rupture process from such a significant earthquake. It suggests that early earthquake warning alerts could be improved using telecom fibers.”

The study proposes equipping seismometers with devices capable of gathering sparse data from the extensive network of telecommunications cables utilized by companies such as Google, Amazon, and AT&T, making monitoring submarine earthquakes—often costly—more affordable.

Emily Brozky, a professor of geoscience at the University of California, Santa Cruz, asserted that “early earthquake warnings could be dramatically improved tomorrow” if scientists can establish widespread access to existing communication networks.

“There are no technical barriers to overcome, and that’s precisely what Atterholt’s research emphasizes,” Brozky mentioned in an interview.

In the long term, leveraging this technology through fiber optic cables could enable researchers to explore the possibility of forecasting some of the most devastating earthquakes in advance.

Scientists have observed intriguing patterns in underwater subduction zones prior to significant earthquakes, including Chile’s magnitude 8.1 quake in 2014 and the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Both of these major earthquakes were preceded by what are known as “slow slip” events that gradually release energy over weeks or months without causing noticeable shaking.

The scientific community is still uncertain about what this pattern signifies, as high-magnitude earthquakes (8.0 or greater) are rare and seldom monitored in detail.

Effective monitoring of seismic activity using telecommunications networks could enable scientists to accurately document these events and assess whether discernible patterns exist that could help predict future disasters.

Brodsky remarked, “What we want to determine is whether the fault will slip slowly before it gives way entirely. We keep observing these signals from afar, but what we need is an up-close and personal instrument to navigate the obstacles.”

While Brodsky emphasized that it’s still unclear whether earthquakes in these extensive subduction zones can be predicted, she noted that the topic is a major source of scientific discussion, with the new fiber optic technology potentially aiding in resolving this issue.

For nearly 10 years, researchers have been investigating earthquake monitoring through optical fiber cables. Brodsky stated that the study highlights the need for collaboration among the federal government, scientific community, and telecommunications providers to negotiate access.

“There are valid concerns; they worry about people installing instruments on their highly valuable assets and about the security of cables and privacy,” Brozky explained regarding telecom companies. “However, it is evident that acquiring this data also serves the public’s safety interests, which makes it a regulatory issue that needs to be addressed.”

Atterholt clarified that fiber optic sensing technology is not intended to replace traditional seismometers, but rather to complement existing data and is more cost-effective than placing seismometers on the seabed. Generally, using cables for earthquake monitoring does not interfere with their primary function of data transmission.

Jiaxuan Li, an assistant professor of geophysics and seismology at the University of Houston, noted he was not involved in the study but mentioned that there are still technical challenges to the implementation of distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) technology, which currently functions over distances of approximately 90 miles.

Li also pointed out that similar methods are being employed in Iceland to monitor magma movements in volcanoes.

“We utilized DAS to facilitate early warnings for volcanic eruptions,” Li explained. “The Icelandic Meteorological Office is now using this technology for issuing early alerts.”

Additionally, the technique indicated that the Mendocino tremors were rare “supershear” earthquakes, which occur when fault fractures advance quicker than seismic waves can travel. Atterholt likened it to a fighter jet exceeding the speed of sound.

New research has serendipitously uncovered patterns associated with Mendocino, providing fresh insights into this phenomenon.

“We still have not fully grasped why some earthquakes become supershear while others do not,” Atterholt reflected. “This could potentially alter the danger level of an earthquake, but the correlation remains unclear.”

Source: www.nbcnews.com

The Negative Impact of Excessive Fiber on Gut Health

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You might have come across the term “fibremaxxing.” This recent health craze, popularized on platforms like TikTok, involves individuals significantly increasing their daily fiber intake. The recommended amount is 25-30g (0.9-1 oz) per day with the goal of enhancing gut health.

Influencers are now dubbing fiber as the “new protein,” promoting high-fiber foods such as beans, lentils, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Some even resort to fiber supplements to meet their daily targets.

This theory suggests that such increases have potential health benefits, including improved digestion, more regular bowel movements, increased gut bacteria, and relief from symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

This trend arises from the belief that modern diets often lack sufficient fiber, and there is certainly some truth to this.

Current data indicates that 91% of individuals in the UK, and likewise in the US, do not meet the recommended fiber intake. 95% of people lack adequate fiber.

So, ramping up fiber consumption must be beneficial, right? However, it’s not that straightforward, particularly in relation to diet and health.

Intestinal Reactions

Fiber plays a crucial role in gut health for several reasons.

Though it is a carbohydrate, fiber differs from other carbs like starch and sugar; it is not digested in the small intestine. Instead, it travels to the large intestine where gut bacteria utilize it. These bacteria offer various health benefits by producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that contribute positively to our health.

Non-decomposable fibers absorb liquid, increase stool bulk, and make elimination smoother. Thus, boosting fiber intake can help prevent constipation and regulate bowel movements.

Individuals with IBS often believe enhanced fiber intake soothes symptoms, particularly if they experience more constipation than diarrhea.

Vegetables offer a variety of fibers, both soluble and insoluble, beneficial for gut health.

Research suggests that adequate fiber intake can reduce the risk of colon cancer. One SCFA produced in the large intestine, butyrate, is believed to have anti-inflammatory and protective properties for colon cells.

By facilitating stool passage, fibers minimize the contact time colon cells have with harmful substances, potentially explaining the rising incidence of colon cancers worldwide. Particularly among young individuals who consume insufficient fiber-rich foods.

Nonetheless, while incorporating more fiber into your diet is generally beneficial, “fibremaxxing” requires a nuanced understanding of nutrition. It’s akin to running a marathon without proper training for your gut.

The Risks of Overconsumption

The gut is a complex ecosystem, finely tuned to maintain balance, and introducing excessive specific nutrients can lead to unintended consequences. Some proponents of “fibremaxxing” advocate for fiber intakes exceeding 50g (1.8oz) daily, possibly resulting in side effects such as bloating, cramps, and diarrhea.

There’s also a variety of fiber types to contemplate. Soluble fibers absorb water and slow digestion, while insoluble fibers pass through largely intact, hastening digestion. Moreover, fermentable fibers feed bacteria in the large intestine.

A healthy gut requires a balance among these fibers. Excessive insoluble fiber (found in wheat bran and some vegetables) may bulk up stool but irritate sensitive digestive organs. Certain fermentable fibers, like oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (known as FODMAPs), can complicate absorption and potentially aggravate IBS symptoms.

To effectively support gut health, a balance of different fiber types is essential. By aiming excessively high, such as 50g (1.8oz) daily, “fibremaxxers” might confine their diet to a limited array of fiber-rich foods.

For example, high-fiber breakfast cereals provide 12.4g of fiber per 100g (0.5 oz per half cup); to reach their lofty goals, individuals may feel compelled to consume multiple bowls throughout the day. However, cereal mainly offers insoluble fiber, lacking soluble and fermented fiber.

Consequently, excessive fiber can lead to increased digestive discomfort and disrupt the delicate equilibrium required for a healthy gut, particularly if individuals neglect to consider how to balance their nutrient intake.

Cleansing Trends

By prioritizing one nutrient for specific health benefits, fibremaxxing fits into a long tradition of cleansing and detox trends targeting digestive health.

While various gut cleansing rituals frequently trend on social media and appear enticing, they often cause more harm than good. For instance, juice cleanses can strip away vital nutrients, and “detox” teas and laxatives may result in dehydration and long-term harm to the intestinal lining.

Additionally, recent trends involving enemas can disrupt the natural rhythm of the intestines and eliminate beneficial bacteria.

Juice cleansing is neither a healthy nor a safe dieting approach.

Experts advise caution regarding trendy supplements and extreme elimination diets that exclude entire food groups without proper oversight, as these may reduce microbial diversity and impair digestion. Your gut won’t appreciate these drastic resets; what it truly needs is ongoing, careful, and balanced support.

Monitoring Your Fiber Intake

How can you determine if you’re consuming enough fiber in your diet and if you need to increase your intake?

Signs such as fatigue and weight gain are often early warnings. Soluble fiber slows digestion, contributing to prolonged feelings of fullness while gradually releasing sugar into the bloodstream.

In its absence, blood sugar levels can fluctuate unpredictably, leading to fatigue shortly after meals. Such energy dips can tempt you into snacking, resulting in weight gain.

While fibremaxxing may have begun as a sincere effort to boost well-being, like many health trends that go viral, it oversimplifies complex bodily processes and poses risks by overdoing things.

It’s evident that most individuals will benefit from increasing fiber consumption, especially from plant-based foods, which can aid digestion, lower disease risk, and help maintain healthy weight. However, this must be done cautiously; excessive, sudden, or unbalanced increases can be detrimental.

Your gut is a finely tuned ecosystem that flourishes through diversity, consistency, and balance—not through drastic changes or quick fixes.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Eating fruit, fiber, caffeine, and dairy products linked to reduced risk of tinnitus

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The key underlying mechanisms may include the protective effects of these diets on blood vessels and nerves, and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, according to new systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

Increased consumption of fruit, dietary fiber, dairy products and caffeine may be associated with a lower risk of tinnitus. Image credit: SERP PAE.

Tinnitus is characterized by perceived sounds such as buzz, cicada, and currents, and occurs without external auditory stimuli.

It is associated with pain, depression, anxiety, stress, and in severe cases suicide, which has a major impact on the overall quality of life.

Recent epidemiological data suggest a globally pooled prevalence of approximately 14.4% in adults and 13.6% in children and adolescents.

The prominent prevalence of tinnitus and its major impact on life and mental well-being is becoming increasingly important medical and social concerns.

The origin of tinnitus remains elusive and involves a variety of factors.

Some researchers suggest neurological dysfunction or circulation problems in the inner ear, abnormal neural activity in the central auditory pathways, and irregular activity in nonauditory brain regions such as the anterior edge, anterior cingulate cortex, and thalamus.

Dieting can have a major impact on tinnitus, but it remains unclear which specific foods will aggravate or alleviate tinnitus symptoms.

In their review and meta-analysis, Dr. Menni Chang and his colleagues at the traditional Chinese Medical University University University searched a research database looking for research linking tinnitus and diet in adults published by May 2024.

They found eight observational studies, including 301,533 individuals who evaluated 15 dietary factors using a quality questionnaire suitable for inclusion in the analysis.

Dietary factors include carbohydrates, caffeine, eggs, fruits, fiber, fat, meat, protein, sugar, fish, vegetables, and dairy products.

The combined findings revealed that increased consumption of fruit, dietary fiber, dairy products and caffeine is associated with a decrease in the incidence of tinnitus.

These reductions were 35% for fruit intake, 9% for dietary fiber, 17% for dairy products, and 10% for caffeine intake.

Although no association was found between other dietary factors and tinnitus, the results were inconsistent after further analysis, the authors point out that the association between caffeine intake and tinnitus is controversial.

The authors acknowledge that the observational design of the included studies did not establish causal relationships, and that a relatively small number of included studies may have led to certain traditional beneficial dietary factors (such as vegetables and eggs) not showing significant differences.

“The major underlying mechanisms may include the protective effects of these diets on blood vessels and nerves, as well as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties,” they said.

“A further extensive research is needed to complement and verify the relationship between dietary intake and tinnitus.”

Their paper It will be displayed in the journal BMJ Open.

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M.Chan et al. 2025. 15 common dietary factors and tinnitus relationships: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. BMJ Open 15: E091507; doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2024-091507

Source: www.sci.news

Scientists successfully achieve quantum teleportation through fiber optic cables transporting internet data

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Researchers at Northwestern University have successfully achieved quantum state transfer over a 30.2 km fiber carrying 400 Gbps C-band classical traffic. The ability for quantum and conventional networks to operate within the same optical fiber will aid in the large-scale deployment of quantum network technology.

thomas others. Demonstrated quantum state teleportation over 30.2 km of fiber with conventional high-power 400 Gbps data traffic. By employing different methods to suppress SpRS noise, we have increased the classical power that can transmit many Tbps aggregate data rates while maintaining sufficient teleportation fidelity. Image credit: Thomas others., doi: 10.1364/OPTICA.540362.

The fiber optic infrastructure and telecommunications technologies that underpin the Internet have been widely adopted by researchers aiming to develop quantum networks capable of applications such as quantum-enhanced cryptography, sensing, and networked quantum computing.

However, the feasibility of quantum networking at scale remains uncertain, as much of the existing fiber infrastructure still carries traditional communications traffic, and new fiber is expensive to lease and install. It depends on its ability to propagate within the network. Uses the same fiber as high-power classical signals.

“In optical communications, all signals are converted to light,” said Prem Kumar, a professor at Northwestern University.

“Conventional signals in classical communications are typically made up of millions of particles of light, whereas quantum information uses a single photon.”

Professor Kumar and his colleagues have discovered a way to allow delicate photons to avoid crowded traffic.

“This is incredibly exciting because no one thought it was possible,” Professor Kumar said.

“Our research points the way to next-generation quantum and classical networks that share a unified fiber optic infrastructure.”

“Essentially, this opens the door to taking quantum communications to the next level.”

After studying in detail how light is scattered in fiber optic cables, researchers have discovered a less crowded wavelength of light at which to place photons.

Next, we added a special filter to reduce noise from normal internet traffic.

“We carefully studied how light scatters and placed photons at decision points where that scattering mechanism is minimized,” Professor Kumar said.

“We found that quantum communication can be performed without interference from simultaneously existing classical channels.”

To test the new method, the scientists installed a 20-mile-long fiber optic cable with photons at each end.

They then transmitted quantum information and regular internet traffic simultaneously.

Finally, we measured the quality of the quantum information at the receiving end by taking quantum measurements at intermediate points while running the teleportation protocol.

They discovered that quantum information was successfully transmitted even in the midst of busy Internet traffic.

Next, the authors plan to extend the experiment to even longer distances.

They also plan to use two pairs of entangled photons to demonstrate entanglement swapping, another important milestone leading to distributed quantum applications.

Finally, we are exploring the possibility of running experiments via underground optical cables in the real world rather than on spools in the lab.

“Quantum teleportation has the ability to securely provide quantum connectivity between geographically separated nodes,” Professor Kumar said.

“But many people have long thought that no one would build the specialized infrastructure to transmit particles of light.”

“If you choose the wavelength properly, you don't need to build new infrastructure. Classical and quantum communications can coexist.”

of the team paper Published in this month's magazine optica.

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Jordan M. Thomas others. 2024. Quantum teleportation coexists with classical communication using optical fibers. optica 11 (12): 1700-1707;doi: 10.1364/OPTICA.540362

This article is adapted from the original release by Northwestern University.

Source: www.sci.news

You may not be consuming enough fiber, which could be accelerating the aging process

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It has been suggested by expert nutritionists Dr. Emily Leeming and Nutritional Psychologist Kimberly Wilson that many individuals are experiencing accelerated brain aging due to a lack of dietary fiber. This deficiency in fiber may be a contributing factor to the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Dementia, a neurodegenerative disease resulting in memory loss, is considered a model of accelerated brain aging, according to Wilson. This emphasizes the importance of dietary fiber for maintaining brain health and activity.

Leeming and Wilson point out that most adults in the UK do not consume an adequate amount of fiber, with the recommended daily intake being at least 30g. However, data shows that British adults only consume around 19g per day, while U.S. adults consume even less at 15g per day. The high cost of fiber-rich foods compared to less healthy options is one reason why individuals may not be meeting their fiber requirements.

Why is Fiber Important for Brain Health?

Wilson describes fiber as an underappreciated protector of the brain. When gut bacteria metabolize fiber, they produce short-chain fatty acids which play a crucial role in protecting the brain. These fatty acids can cross the blood-brain barrier and prevent toxic substances from passing through, highlighting the importance of fiber in maintaining brain health.

Tips for Increasing Fiber Intake

Leeming emphasizes the importance of including fiber-rich foods in the diet to improve gut health and overall well-being. Some tips for increasing fiber intake include focusing on fiber-rich foods like rye bread and beans, snacking on nuts, adding vegetables to meals, and consuming dark chocolate and root vegetables with the skin on.

Increasing fiber intake can also lower the risk of various health conditions, including colon cancer, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It can also support a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for overall health.

Learn More About Our Experts

Kimberly Wilson is a licensed psychologist with a Masters in Nutrition and is a published author of books on healthy brain development and the impact of food on mental health.

Dr. Emily Leeming is a Registered Dietitian and Research Fellow with expertise in the impact of diet on the gut microbiome. She has published a book on the science of diet for gut health.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

You may be lacking in fiber intake, which could accelerate aging

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Research indicates that a lack of dietary fiber may result in accelerated brain aging, potentially contributing to the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Expert nutritionists, such as Dr. Emily Leeming and Nutritional Psychologist Kimberly Wilson, presented this theory at the Cheltenham Science Festival.

In fact, dementia, a condition characterized by memory loss, is described as a model of accelerated brain aging by Wilson. This highlights the importance of dietary fiber for brain health and overall well-being.

Most adults in the UK are not consuming enough fiber, falling short of the recommended intake of 30g per day for optimal health. This deficiency poses a risk factor for various health conditions, including cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

According to Leeming and Wilson, consuming fiber-rich foods is essential for brain protection. Fiber is metabolized by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids that play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the blood-brain barrier. These fatty acids help prevent the passage of harmful substances into the brain.

If you are not getting enough fiber in your diet, Leeming suggests incorporating fiber-rich foods like rye bread, beans, nuts, and vegetables. Additionally, consuming dark chocolate and root vegetables with the skin on can help boost your fiber intake.

By increasing fiber consumption, individuals can support their gut health, manage blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Leeming and Wilson emphasize the importance of fiber for overall health and well-being.

Our experts, Kimberly Wilson and Dr. Emily Leeming, have extensive experience in nutrition and psychology, respectively. Wilson is a licensed psychologist and author, while Leeming is a Registered Dietitian and Research Fellow with a focus on the gut microbiome.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Cotton fiber with enhanced conductivity to generate electricity

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Researchers have developed a new fiber that blends the flexibility of cotton with the electrical conductivity of the polymer polyaniline. This innovative material, detailed in Carbohydrate Polymers, shows potential in creating wearable electronic textiles for applications such as health monitoring and hazardous exposure detection. (Artist’s concept) Credit: SciTechDaily.com

A Washington State University breakthrough combines the flexibility of cotton with the electrical conductivity of polymers, paving the way for advanced wearable electronic textiles.

A single fiber developed at Washington State University has the flexibility of cotton and the electrical conductivity of a polymer called polyaniline.

The newly developed material showed great potential as a wearable electronic textile. WSU researchers tested the fibers with a system that powers LED lights and a system that senses ammonia gas, and detailed their results in the journal Nature. carbohydrate polymer.

Microscopic image of the newly developed fiber. It shows a parallel mix, with one side containing cotton and the other side a polyanaline polymer that can conduct electrical current.Credit: Washington State University

“One fiber is divided into two sections. One section is traditional cotton, flexible and strong enough for everyday use, and the other side is a conductive material,” says WSU Textile Research. said Hang Liu, a researcher and corresponding author of the study. “Cotton can support conductive materials that can provide the required functionality.”

Potential applications in wearable technology

Although further development is required, the idea is to incorporate such fibers into apparel as sensor patches with flexible circuitry. These patches could become part of the uniforms of firefighters, soldiers, and workers who work with chemicals to detect hazardous exposures. Other applications include health monitoring and exercise shirts with features beyond today’s fitness monitors.

“We have some smart wearable products like smartwatches that can track people’s movements and people’s vital signs, but in the future we hope that everyday wear will also have these features. “We are doing so,” Liu said. “Fashion is more than just colors and styles, as many people think. Fashion is a science.”

Han Liu, a textile researcher at Washington State University.Credit: Washington State University Dean Hare

Technical challenges and solutions

In this study, the WSU team worked to overcome the challenge of blending conductive polymers with cotton cellulose. Polymers are substances with very large molecules that have repeating patterns. In this case, the researchers used polyaniline, also known as PANI, a synthetic polymer with conductive properties that is already used in applications such as printed circuit board manufacturing.

Although polyaniline is inherently conductive, it is brittle and cannot be made into textile fibers on its own. To solve this, WSU researchers dissolved cotton cellulose from recycled T-shirts in a solution and a conductive polymer in another solution. He then combined the two solutions side by side and extruded the material to create a single fiber.

Han Liu, a textile researcher at Washington State University, shows a microscopic image of the newly developed fiber, showing a side-by-side mixture containing cotton on one side and a polyanaline polymer that can conduct electrical current on the other side. We are confirming that there is.Credit: Washington State University Dean Hare

The results showed good interfacial bonding. This means that the molecules of different materials stay together even when stretched or bent.

Achieving the right mixture at the cotton cellulose and polyaniline interface required a delicate balance, Liu said.

“We’ve made these two solutions work so that when the cotton and conductive polymer come in contact with each other, they mix to some extent in a glue-like state. But don’t mix too much; don’t do that. And it becomes less conductive,” she said.

Reference: “Novel structural design of cellulose-based conductive composite fibers for wearable electronic textiles” Wangcheng Liu, Hang Liu, Zihui Zhao, Dan Liang, Wei-Hong Zhong, Jinwen Zhang, August 18, 2023. carbohydrate polymer.
DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2023.121308

In addition to lead author Wangcheng Liu, WSU authors of the study also include Zihui Zhao, Dan Liang, Wei-Hong Zhong, and Jinwen Zhang. This research received support from the National Science Foundation and the Walmart Foundation Project.

Source: scitechdaily.com