TEXTILES.ORG
Taiwan-based YAO I Fabric Co. Ltd. has unveiled innovative conductive PET fibers, with the brand name FLEX™ Yarn, that are enhanced with TUBALL™ graphene nanotubes from OCSiAl. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibers, valued for their high strength, low weight and resistance to moisture, UV radiation and chemicals, are essential in various high-performance applications. But electronics, clean room environments and industrial workwear demand an additional functionality for insulative fibers: electrostatic discharge protection.
Traditionally, metal wires or carbon black were used to achieve conductivity in thermoplastic polymer fibers, which often limited design options, could cause allergic reactions and could result in difficulties with color fastness, especially under rigorous testing standards. More importantly, the physical properties of carbon black-based conductive fiber are insufficient for this purpose: the fiber must be processed into a composite yarn before weaving.
Graphene nanotubes give PET fibers stable, permanent electrical conductivity meeting safety standards for electronics, clean rooms and workwear. Compared to previous-generation additives, nanotubes offer superior functionality and maintain flexibility, durability, hypoallergenic properties and customizable color options. With a nanotube dosage of just 0.001 to 0.05 wt. percent FLEX™ Yarn exhibits stable electrical resistances of 105~106Ω/cm and 102~103Ω/cm, while retaining its flexibility, color vibrancy, and hypoallergenic properties.
“The ultralong structure of graphene nanotubes allows them to form a 3D network inside the material throughout its entire volume, ensuring uniform conductivity across the fiber without carbon release. This enhances anti-static and electromagnetic interference (EMI) protection without compromising color or comfort,” said Ray Lu, senior manager, YAO I Fabric Co., Ltd.
“The series of FLEX™ Yarns with graphene nanotubes offers a sustainable solution, combining the durability and recyclability of PET with the high efficiency of TUBALL™ at an ultralow dosage,” added Otis Wang, general manager, YAO I Fabric Co., Ltd.
Headquartered in Luxembourg, OCSiAl is a manufacturer of graphene nanotubes, also known as single-wall carbon nanotubes. The company produces high-purity graphene nanotubes on an industrial scale under the TUBALL™ brand name. YAO I Fabric Co., Ltd., Taiwan, is a manufacturer of high-performance monofilaments and technical textiles.