Dr Tian Carey

The problem

Wearable electronics are often rigid and limited in flexibility because of how they are manufactured. Wearable components often do not bend and stretch with the clothes that they are added to and can have issues with durability, especially when washed.

The solution

Textile Two Dimensional is a University of Cambridge spin-out that makes electronic inks using graphene, which can be printed directly onto textiles. These inks can be layered to create bespoke, functional and wearable electronics. The electronics, and graphene’s electrical and thermal conductivity properties, are integrated into the textiles while remaining flexible and washable. They can be comfortably worn and re-used several times, meaning that they are also cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

The company is working closely with end-product manufacturers to explore development for a range of smart wearables in areas such as personal health, fitness and wellbeing, protection and fashion.

Dr Tian Carey initially explored the potential for the technology during his PhD at the University of Cambridge’s EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Graphene Technology. As a result, Textile Two Dimensional continues to work closely with the Cambridge Graphene Centre to promote innovative research with an emphasis on application.

Traction

• 2018: Textile Two Dimensional and Cambridge Enterprise collaborate to accelerate adoption to market.

Dr Carey was awarded a 2018 Enterprise Fellowship to support him as the team at Textile Two Dimensional grows and the company develops from an ink manufacturer to a wearable systems manufacturer.