Significance of Nanomaterials in Wearables: A Review on Wearable Actuators and Sensors

Together with the evolution of digital health care, the wearable electronics field has evolved rapidly during the past few years and is expected to be expanded even further within the first few years of the next decade. As the next stage of wearables is predicted to move toward integrated wearables, nanomaterials and nanocomposites are in the spotlight of the search for novel concepts for integration. In addition, the conversion of current devices and attachment‐based wearables into integrated technology may involve a significant size reduction while retaining their functional capabilities. Nanomaterial‐based wearable sensors have already marked their presence with a significant distinction while nanomaterial‐based wearable actuators are still at their embryonic stage. This review looks into the contribution of nanomaterials and nanocomposites to wearable technology with a focus on wearable sensors and actuators. Being an emerging engineering field, wearable technology has made a significant footprint with impressive market and funding. Since the industry is expected to grow massively over the next few years, an understanding of current material trends in wearable sensors and actuators is of high importance for both engineers and designers. Current wearables from a materials viewpoint are reviewed.