Researchers at Seoul National University of Science and Technology (SEOULTECH) have made significant strides in the realm of health monitoring technology by developing innovative 3D-printed carbon nanotube (CNT) sensors. These advancements highlight the potential of carbon nanotubes in the creation of flexible electronics that can be utilized in various wearable health monitoring applications.
The Challenge of Carbon Nanotubes in 3D Printing
Carbon nanotubes have long been recognized for their impressive electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. However, their application has been hindered by their tendency to agglomerate, resulting in challenges in achieving uniform dispersion within composite materials. Traditional methods of integrating CNTs into polystyrene or polymer matrix often limit the control over the distribution and shape of the nanotubes, compromising the effectiveness of the final product.
To address these issues, researchers are embracing additive manufacturing techniques, particularly vat photopolymerization (VPP). This method provides enhanced design flexibility, allowing for the creation of complex structures while ensuring high printing accuracy. Despite its potential, VPP has its own set of challenges, especially the need to balance the printability of the materials while achieving the requisite stretchability and electrical conductivity.
Breakthrough Contribution by SEOULTECH Researchers
Led by Professor Keun Park and Associate Professor Soonjae Pyo, the research team at SEOULTECH has successfully fabricated highly stretchable and electrically conductive carbon nanotube-based nanocomposites optimized for VPP. Their breakthrough was recently published in the journal Composite Structures on November 15, 2025.
By evenly dispersing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into an aliphatic urethane diacrylate (AUD) resin, the team formulated polymer nanocomposite inks. The inks were meticulously prepared, achieving uniform dispersion through ultrasonic agitation to prevent the typical agglomeration issues associated with CNTs. The researchers explored various ink concentrations, ultimately determining that a formulation with 0.9 weight% CNTs delivered the best combination of mechanical and electrical properties.
Outstanding Performance Metrics
The results of their tests are impressive. The 0.9 weight% CNT formulation demonstrated:
- A remarkable stretchability of up to 223% before breaking.
- An electrical conductivity of 1.64 ×10−3 S/m, outpacing other materials previously reported for similar applications.
- A printing resolution of 0.6 mm, allowing for precise detail in the printed structures.
In demonstrating practical application, the team innovatively utilized the optimized CNT nanocomposite to 3D print piezoresistive sensors based on advanced triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) architectures. This design allows the sensors to exhibit high sensitivity and reliability for various monitoring tasks.
Application in Wearable Technology
One of the most exciting aspects of this research is the integration of these sensors into a smart-insole platform. This device can monitor real-time pressure distribution on the bottom of the foot, effectively detecting different postures and movements. Such capabilities hint at a future where wearable health monitors can deliver not only real-time feedback but also valuable insights into user activity and overall health.
Future Implications for Health Monitoring
The implications of SEOULTECH’s findings are vast. The potential applications of these CNT nanocomposites extend beyond smart insoles to include various wearable devices that can monitor health parameters in real-time. With the growing interest in personalized healthcare and the Internet of Things (IoT), integrating such advanced materials into everyday objects can revolutionize how health monitoring is approached.
Moreover, the ability to manufacture highly flexible materials with superior electrical properties opens doors for innovations in smart textiles, soft robotics, and additional wearable technology. These advancements could lead to devices that are not only functional but also comfortable and unobtrusive for users, paving the way for widespread adoption in the consumer market.
Conclusion
The recent developments in 3D-printed carbon nanotube sensors by researchers at Seoul National University of Science and Technology represent a significant leap forward in the integration of advanced materials into health monitoring technologies. As the pharmaceutical and tech industries continue to evolve, the importance of such innovative materials cannot be overstated. Through their adept use of VPP for fabricating CNT-based nanocomposites, SEOULTECH researchers are at the forefront of a new era in health monitoring solutions, one that promises to enhance both the quality of life and the landscape of wearable technology.
For those interested in further details, the original paper detailing this research can be found in the journal Composite Structures—complete with the methodology and findings that underpin these promising advancements in health monitoring technology.
With ongoing research and potential collaborations, we can expect to see even more exciting developments emerging from SEOULTECH in the near future. Engaging with their progress could be an excellent opportunity for investors and tech enthusiasts alike to understand the future of smart health technologies.
