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Title of the thesis: Toward robust electrical heating bio-based textiles

Thesis defender: Babak Abdi
Opponent: Docent Nils-Krister Persson, University of BorÃ¥s, Sweden 
Custos: Dr. Ali Tarhini, Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering

Toward robust electrical heating bio-based textiles
 

This doctoral thesis explores the development of electrically conductive and electrically heating textiles, with a particular focus on using carbon-based materials and more sustainable binder systems. The research addresses a growing need for smart textiles that can actively generate heat while remaining flexible, durable, and suitable for everyday use.
The main purpose of the study was to improve the performance and reliability of electrically heating textiles by investigating how different conductive materials, coating formulations, and processing parameters affect electrical conductivity, heating efficiency, mechanical durability, and resistance to wear and washing. Existing solutions often face trade-offs between conductivity, flexibility, durability, and environmental impact, which limits their practical use.
The thesis contributes to ongoing research in smart and functional textiles by providing a systematic understanding of how material composition and coating design influence textile performance. Experimental results show that conductive coatings based on carbon nanomaterials can effectively transform conventional textile fabrics into electrically active surfaces capable of stable and controllable heat generation. The study also demonstrates how different binder systems influence electrical performance, flexibility, and long-term durability.
The main outcome of the research is the identification of coating strategies that balance electrical conductivity with mechanical robustness and fastness properties. This work provides new insight into how hybrid material approaches can overcome common limitations in electrically heating textiles.
The findings can be applied in a wide range of areas, including heated clothing, wearable health and rehabilitation products, cold-weather workwear, and smart interior textiles. Overall, the thesis concludes that carefully designed conductive textile coatings can enable reliable, efficient, and more sustainable electrically heating textiles, supporting future developments in wearable and smart textile technologies.
 

Smart textiles, Electrical heating, Conductive ink

Thesis available for public display 7 days prior to the defence at .

Contact information: babak.abdi@aalto.fi