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Interfacial bonding between fibre and matrix is most critical to obtain enhanced mechanical properties of the resulting composites. Here we present a new surface tailoring method of selective wet etching and organosilicon monomers (3-(Trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate, TMSPMA) deposition process on the short S-Glass fibre as a reinforcing material, resulting in increased mechanical retention and strong chemical bonding between glass fibres and polymer resin (a mixture of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) monomers). The effect of surface modification on fibre matrix interfacial strength was investigated through microdroplet tests. An S-Glass fibre treated with piranha solution (a mixture of H2O2 and H2SO4) for 24 hours followed by TMSPMA surface silanization shows highest increase up to 39.6% in interfacial shear strength (IFSS), and critical fibre length could be reduced from 916.0 µm to 432.5 µm. We find the optimal surface treatment condition in that the flexural strength of dental composites reinforced by the S-Glass fibres enhanced up to 22.3% compared to the composites without fibre surface treatments. The significant elevation in strength is attributed to changes in the surface roughness of glass fibres at atomic scale, specifically by providing the multiplied spots of the chemical bridge and nano-mechanical interlocking. The findings offer a new strategy for advanced tailoring of short S-Glass fibres to maximise the mechanical properties of biomedical and dental composites.

The use of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C 4 D) for the characterisation of thin conductive graphene fi bres, graphene composite fi bres, and graphene coated fi brous materials is demon- strated for the fi rst time. Within a few seconds, the non-destructive C 4 D detector provides a pro fi le of the longetudinal physical homogeneity of the fi bre, as well as extra information regarding fi bre mophology and composition. In addition to the theoretical considerations related to the factors a ff ect the output signal, this work evaluates the properties of graphene fi bres using scanning C 4 D following the manufac- turing process of wet-spinning. Furthermore, conductive graphene-coated fi brous materials and the e ff ectiveness of the coating and reduction procedures applied could be investigated. Apart from the application of C 4 D in the monitoring of such processes, the feasibility of this small, highly sensitive and rapidly-responsive detector to monitor strain and elasticity responses of conductive and elastomeric composite fi bres for applications in motion sensing, biomedical monitoring, and stretchable electronics was also demonstrated.

Electrically conductive elastomeric fibres prepared using a wet-spinning process are promising materials for intelligent textiles, in particular as a strain sensing component of the fabric. However, these fibres, when reinforced with conducting fillers, typically result in a compromise between mechanical and electrical properties and, ultimately, in the strain sensing functionality. Here we investigate the wet-spinning of polyurethane (PU) fibres with a range of conducting fillers such as carbon black (CB), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and chemically converted graphene. We show that the electrical and mechanical properties of the composite fibres were strongly dependent on the aspect ratio of the filler and the interaction between the filler and the elastomer. The high aspect ratio SWCNT filler resulted in fibres with the highest electrical properties and reinforcement, while the fibres produced from the low aspect ratio CB had the highest stretchability. Furthermore, PU/SWCNT fibres presented the largest sensing range (up to 60% applied strain) and the most consistent and stable cyclic sensing behaviour. This work provides an understanding of the important factors that influence the production of conductive elastomer fibres by wet-spinning, which can be woven or knitted into textiles for the development of wearable strain sensors.

Continuous composite fibres composed of polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at different mass ratios were fabricated using a single step wet-spinning approach. The electrical conductivity of the composite fibres increased significantly with the addition of rGO. The mechanical properties of the composite fibres also improved by the addition of rGO sheets compared to fibres containing only PPy. The ultimate tensile strength of the fibres increased with the proportion of rGO mass present. The elongation at break was greatest for the composite fibre containing equal mass ratios of PPy nanoparticles and rGO sheets. L929 fibroblasts seeded onto fibres showed no reduction in cell viability. To further assess toxicity, cells were exposed to media that had been used to extract any aqueous-soluble leachates from developed fibre. Overall, these composite fibres show promising mechanical and electrical properties while not significantly impeding cell growth, opening up a wide range of potential applications including nerve and muscle regeneration studies.

Electrospun fibres and polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) were prepared from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Aliquat 336. Morphological and thermomechanical properties of the electrospun mats differed notably from those of PIMs. The plasticizing effect of Aliquat 336 on electrospun PVC/Aliquat 336 fibres was confirmed by the shifting of the glass transition temperature (Tg). By contrast, Aliquat 336 did not act as a plasticizer in PIMs as Tg was independent of Aliquat 336 concentration. Cadmium extraction to electrospun fibres could occur at a lower Aliquat 336 content (i.e. 6 wt.%) compared with PIMs. At 40 wt.% Aliquat 336 content, both PIMs and electrospun fibrous mats exhibited similar extraction rate.

Electrically conductive elastomeric fibres prepared using a wet-spinning process are promising materials for intelligent textiles, in particular as a strain sensing component of the fabric. However, these fibres, when reinforced with conducting fillers, typically result in a compromise between mechanical and electrical properties and, ultimately, in the strain sensing functionality. Here we investigate the wet-spinning of polyurethane (PU) fibres with a range of conducting fillers such as carbon black (CB), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and chemically converted graphene. We show that the electrical and mechanical properties of the composite fibres were strongly dependent on the aspect ratio of the filler and the interaction between the filler and the elastomer. The high aspect ratio SWCNT filler resulted in fibres with the highest electrical properties and reinforcement, while the fibres produced from the low aspect ratio CB had the highest stretchability. Furthermore, PU/SWCNT fibres presented the largest sensing range (up to 60% applied strain) and the most consistent and stable cyclic sensing behaviour. This work provides an understanding of the important factors that influence the production of conductive elastomer fibres by wet-spinning, which can be woven or knitted into textiles for the development of wearable strain sensors.

The use of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C 4 D) for the characterisation of thin conductive graphene fi bres, graphene composite fi bres, and graphene coated fi brous materials is demon- strated for the fi rst time. Within a few seconds, the non-destructive C 4 D detector provides a pro fi le of the longetudinal physical homogeneity of the fi bre, as well as extra information regarding fi bre mophology and composition. In addition to the theoretical considerations related to the factors a ff ect the output signal, this work evaluates the properties of graphene fi bres using scanning C 4 D following the manufac- turing process of wet-spinning. Furthermore, conductive graphene-coated fi brous materials and the e ff ectiveness of the coating and reduction procedures applied could be investigated. Apart from the application of C 4 D in the monitoring of such processes, the feasibility of this small, highly sensitive and rapidly-responsive detector to monitor strain and elasticity responses of conductive and elastomeric composite fi bres for applications in motion sensing, biomedical monitoring, and stretchable electronics was also demonstrated.

Continuous composite fibres composed of polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at different mass ratios were fabricated using a single step wet-spinning approach. The electrical conductivity of the composite fibres increased significantly with the addition of rGO. The mechanical properties of the composite fibres also improved by the addition of rGO sheets compared to fibres containing only PPy. The ultimate tensile strength of the fibres increased with the proportion of rGO mass present. The elongation at break was greatest for the composite fibre containing equal mass ratios of PPy nanoparticles and rGO sheets. L929 fibroblasts seeded onto fibres showed no reduction in cell viability. To further assess toxicity, cells were exposed to media that had been used to extract any aqueous-soluble leachates from developed fibre. Overall, these composite fibres show promising mechanical and electrical properties while not significantly impeding cell growth, opening up a wide range of potential applications including nerve and muscle regeneration studies.

Electrospun fibres and polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) were prepared from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Aliquat 336. Morphological and thermomechanical properties of the electrospun mats differed notably from those of PIMs. The plasticizing effect of Aliquat 336 on electrospun PVC/Aliquat 336 fibres was confirmed by the shifting of the glass transition temperature (Tg). By contrast, Aliquat 336 did not act as a plasticizer in PIMs as Tg was independent of Aliquat 336 concentration. Cadmium extraction to electrospun fibres could occur at a lower Aliquat 336 content (i.e. 6 wt.%) compared with PIMs. At 40 wt.% Aliquat 336 content, both PIMs and electrospun fibrous mats exhibited similar extraction rate.

This study investigates the uniaxial tensile strength capacity of High Strength Concrete (HSC) and Steel Fibre High Strength Concrete (SFHSC) using the direct tensile testing method developed at the University of Wollongong. The SFHSC mix contained 1% (by volume) brass coated steel fibres. Steel claws were embedded in the ends of 100 x 100 x 500 mm HSC and SFHSC specimens to prevent slippage and fracture at the ends of the specimens. Steel universal joints were also used to ensure a perfect alignment of the specimens. The cross-sectional area of the tested specimens was reduced in the middle to ensure that failure would occur in the middle. The results indicated that the direct tensile strengths of the HSC and SFHSC specimens were less than splitting and flexure strengths. The direct tensile strength of SFHSC specimens was found to be 20% higher than the direct tensile strength of the HSC specimens.

Steel fibres were corroded by using the method of drying-wetting cycles. Based on the investigation of their surface characters and according to the results of uniaxial tension test and finite element analysis, the effect of corrosion degrees on the deterioration of mechanical properties of corroded steel fibres was studied. Results show that many corrosion pits appear on the surface of the steel fibres after drying-wetting cycles. The deterioration of mechanical properties of corroded steel fibres is due to section loss and stress concentration at these pits. Moreover, the degrees of stress concentration depend on the varying pit depth, pit width and diameter of steel fibre. Finally, the deterioration model of ultimate tensile load of corroded steel fibres, considering the effects of pit depth, pit width and diameter of steel fibre, is proposed and verified by test results. Also, the model can be adopted for calculating the ultimate tensile load of corroded steel bars.

The use of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C 4 D) for the characterisation of thin conductive graphene fi bres, graphene composite fi bres, and graphene coated fi brous materials is demon- strated for the fi rst time. Within a few seconds, the non-destructive C 4 D detector provides a pro fi le of the longetudinal physical homogeneity of the fi bre, as well as extra information regarding fi bre mophology and composition. In addition to the theoretical considerations related to the factors a ff ect the output signal, this work evaluates the properties of graphene fi bres using scanning C 4 D following the manufac- turing process of wet-spinning. Furthermore, conductive graphene-coated fi brous materials and the e ff ectiveness of the coating and reduction procedures applied could be investigated. Apart from the application of C 4 D in the monitoring of such processes, the feasibility of this small, highly sensitive and rapidly-responsive detector to monitor strain and elasticity responses of conductive and elastomeric composite fi bres for applications in motion sensing, biomedical monitoring, and stretchable electronics was also demonstrated.

Electrospun fibres and polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) were prepared from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Aliquat 336. Morphological and thermomechanical properties of the electrospun mats differed notably from those of PIMs. The plasticizing effect of Aliquat 336 on electrospun PVC/Aliquat 336 fibres was confirmed by the shifting of the glass transition temperature (Tg). By contrast, Aliquat 336 did not act as a plasticizer in PIMs as Tg was independent of Aliquat 336 concentration. Cadmium extraction to electrospun fibres could occur at a lower Aliquat 336 content (i.e. 6 wt.%) compared with PIMs. At 40 wt.% Aliquat 336 content, both PIMs and electrospun fibrous mats exhibited similar extraction rate.

Electrically conductive elastomeric fibres prepared using a wet-spinning process are promising materials for intelligent textiles, in particular as a strain sensing component of the fabric. However, these fibres, when reinforced with conducting fillers, typically result in a compromise between mechanical and electrical properties and, ultimately, in the strain sensing functionality. Here we investigate the wet-spinning of polyurethane (PU) fibres with a range of conducting fillers such as carbon black (CB), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and chemically converted graphene. We show that the electrical and mechanical properties of the composite fibres were strongly dependent on the aspect ratio of the filler and the interaction between the filler and the elastomer. The high aspect ratio SWCNT filler resulted in fibres with the highest electrical properties and reinforcement, while the fibres produced from the low aspect ratio CB had the highest stretchability. Furthermore, PU/SWCNT fibres presented the largest sensing range (up to 60% applied strain) and the most consistent and stable cyclic sensing behaviour. This work provides an understanding of the important factors that influence the production of conductive elastomer fibres by wet-spinning, which can be woven or knitted into textiles for the development of wearable strain sensors.

Continuous composite fibres composed of polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at different mass ratios were fabricated using a single step wet-spinning approach. The electrical conductivity of the composite fibres increased significantly with the addition of rGO. The mechanical properties of the composite fibres also improved by the addition of rGO sheets compared to fibres containing only PPy. The ultimate tensile strength of the fibres increased with the proportion of rGO mass present. The elongation at break was greatest for the composite fibre containing equal mass ratios of PPy nanoparticles and rGO sheets. L929 fibroblasts seeded onto fibres showed no reduction in cell viability. To further assess toxicity, cells were exposed to media that had been used to extract any aqueous-soluble leachates from developed fibre. Overall, these composite fibres show promising mechanical and electrical properties while not significantly impeding cell growth, opening up a wide range of potential applications including nerve and muscle regeneration studies.

The use of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C 4 D) for the characterisation of thin conductive graphene fi bres, graphene composite fi bres, and graphene coated fi brous materials is demon- strated for the fi rst time. Within a few seconds, the non-destructive C 4 D detector provides a pro fi le of the longetudinal physical homogeneity of the fi bre, as well as extra information regarding fi bre mophology and composition. In addition to the theoretical considerations related to the factors a ff ect the output signal, this work evaluates the properties of graphene fi bres using scanning C 4 D following the manufac- turing process of wet-spinning. Furthermore, conductive graphene-coated fi brous materials and the e ff ectiveness of the coating and reduction procedures applied could be investigated. Apart from the application of C 4 D in the monitoring of such processes, the feasibility of this small, highly sensitive and rapidly-responsive detector to monitor strain and elasticity responses of conductive and elastomeric composite fi bres for applications in motion sensing, biomedical monitoring, and stretchable electronics was also demonstrated.

Electrically conductive elastomeric fibres prepared using a wet-spinning process are promising materials for intelligent textiles, in particular as a strain sensing component of the fabric. However, these fibres, when reinforced with conducting fillers, typically result in a compromise between mechanical and electrical properties and, ultimately, in the strain sensing functionality. Here we investigate the wet-spinning of polyurethane (PU) fibres with a range of conducting fillers such as carbon black (CB), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and chemically converted graphene. We show that the electrical and mechanical properties of the composite fibres were strongly dependent on the aspect ratio of the filler and the interaction between the filler and the elastomer. The high aspect ratio SWCNT filler resulted in fibres with the highest electrical properties and reinforcement, while the fibres produced from the low aspect ratio CB had the highest stretchability. Furthermore, PU/SWCNT fibres presented the largest sensing range (up to 60% applied strain) and the most consistent and stable cyclic sensing behaviour. This work provides an understanding of the important factors that influence the production of conductive elastomer fibres by wet-spinning, which can be woven or knitted into textiles for the development of wearable strain sensors.

Electrospun fibres and polymer inclusion membranes (PIMs) were prepared from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Aliquat 336. Morphological and thermomechanical properties of the electrospun mats differed notably from those of PIMs. The plasticizing effect of Aliquat 336 on electrospun PVC/Aliquat 336 fibres was confirmed by the shifting of the glass transition temperature (Tg). By contrast, Aliquat 336 did not act as a plasticizer in PIMs as Tg was independent of Aliquat 336 concentration. Cadmium extraction to electrospun fibres could occur at a lower Aliquat 336 content (i.e. 6 wt.%) compared with PIMs. At 40 wt.% Aliquat 336 content, both PIMs and electrospun fibrous mats exhibited similar extraction rate.

Continuous composite fibres composed of polypyrrole (PPy) nanoparticles and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) at different mass ratios were fabricated using a single step wet-spinning approach. The electrical conductivity of the composite fibres increased significantly with the addition of rGO. The mechanical properties of the composite fibres also improved by the addition of rGO sheets compared to fibres containing only PPy. The ultimate tensile strength of the fibres increased with the proportion of rGO mass present. The elongation at break was greatest for the composite fibre containing equal mass ratios of PPy nanoparticles and rGO sheets. L929 fibroblasts seeded onto fibres showed no reduction in cell viability. To further assess toxicity, cells were exposed to media that had been used to extract any aqueous-soluble leachates from developed fibre. Overall, these composite fibres show promising mechanical and electrical properties while not significantly impeding cell growth, opening up a wide range of potential applications including nerve and muscle regeneration studies.

The use of capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C 4 D) for the characterisation of thin conductive graphene fi bres, graphene composite fi bres, and graphene coated fi brous materials is demon- strated for the fi rst time. Within a few seconds, the non-destructive C 4 D detector provides a pro fi le of the longetudinal physical homogeneity of the fi bre, as well as extra information regarding fi bre mophology and composition. In addition to the theoretical considerations related to the factors a ff ect the output signal, this work evaluates the properties of graphene fi bres using scanning C 4 D following the manufac- turing process of wet-spinning. Furthermore, conductive graphene-coated fi brous materials and the e ff ectiveness of the coating and reduction procedures applied could be investigated. Apart from the application of C 4 D in the monitoring of such processes, the feasibility of this small, highly sensitive and rapidly-responsive detector to monitor strain and elasticity responses of conductive and elastomeric composite fi bres for applications in motion sensing, biomedical monitoring, and stretchable electronics was also demonstrated.

Electrically conductive elastomeric fibres prepared using a wet-spinning process are promising materials for intelligent textiles, in particular as a strain sensing component of the fabric. However, these fibres, when reinforced with conducting fillers, typically result in a compromise between mechanical and electrical properties and, ultimately, in the strain sensing functionality. Here we investigate the wet-spinning of polyurethane (PU) fibres with a range of conducting fillers such as carbon black (CB), single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and chemically converted graphene. We show that the electrical and mechanical properties of the composite fibres were strongly dependent on the aspect ratio of the filler and the interaction between the filler and the elastomer. The high aspect ratio SWCNT filler resulted in fibres with the highest electrical properties and reinforcement, while the fibres produced from the low aspect ratio CB had the highest stretchability. Furthermore, PU/SWCNT fibres presented the largest sensing range (up to 60% applied strain) and the most consistent and stable cyclic sensing behaviour. This work provides an understanding of the important factors that influence the production of conductive elastomer fibres by wet-spinning, which can be woven or knitted into textiles for the development of wearable strain sensors.

Highly twisted oriented polymer fibres and carbon nanotube yarns show large scale torsional actuation from volume expansion that can be induced, for example, thermally or by electrochemical charging. When formed into spring-like coils, the torsional actuation within the fibre or yarn generates powerful tensile actuation per muscle weight. For further development of these coil actuators and for the practical application of torsional actuators, it is important to standardise methods for characterising both the torsional stroke (rotation) and torque generated. By analogy with tensile actuators, we here introduce a method to measure both the free stroke and blocked torque in a one-end-tethered fibre. In addition, the torsional actuation can be measured when operating against an externally applied torque (isotonic) and actuation against a return spring fibre (variable torque). A theoretical treatment of torsional actuation was formulated using torsion mechanics and evaluated using a commercially available highly-oriented polyamide fibre. Good agreement between experimental measurements and calculated values was obtained. The analysis allows the prediction of torsional stroke under any external loading condition based on the fundamental characteristics of the actuator: free stroke and stiffness.

Highly twisted oriented polymer fibres and carbon nanotube yarns show large scale torsional actuation from volume expansion that can be induced, for example, thermally or by electrochemical charging. When formed into spring-like coils, the torsional actuation within the fibre or yarn generates powerful tensile actuation per muscle weight. For further development of these coil actuators and for the practical application of torsional actuators, it is important to standardise methods for characterising both the torsional stroke (rotation) and torque generated. By analogy with tensile actuators, we here introduce a method to measure both the free stroke and blocked torque in a one-end-tethered fibre. In addition, the torsional actuation can be measured when operating against an externally applied torque (isotonic) and actuation against a return spring fibre (variable torque). A theoretical treatment of torsional actuation was formulated using torsion mechanics and evaluated using a commercially available highly-oriented polyamide fibre. Good agreement between experimental measurements and calculated values was obtained. The analysis allows the prediction of torsional stroke under any external loading condition based on the fundamental characteristics of the actuator: free stroke and stiffness.

The significance of etched single-mode polymer optical fibers and their potential for the development of highsensitivity sensors are presented. A polymethyl methacrylatebased single-mode polymer optical fiber is etched to various diameters and it is observed that etching can lead to change in the material properties of the fiber, such as Young's modulus and thermal expansion coefficient. This can play a vital role in improving the intrinsic sensing capabilities of sensors based on etched polymer optical fiber. To demonstrate that the modified material properties of the etched polymer fiber can enhance its intrinsic sensing capabilities, sensing characteristics of etched polymer fiber Bragg gratings for strain, temperature, and pressure are obtained. From the results, it is confirmed that the sensors based on etched polymer fibers exhibit high intrinsic sensitivity compared with un-etched ones. The potential of developing a sensing system for simultaneous measurement of strain and temperature is also demonstrated.

Recent developments in graphene oxide fibre (GO) processing include exciting demonstrations of hand woven textile structures. However, it is uncertain whether the fibres produced can meet the processing requirements of conventional textile manufacturing. This work reports for the first time the production of highly flexible and tough GO fibres that can be knitted using textile machinery. The GO fibres are made by using a dry-jet wet-spinning method, which allows drawing of the spinning solution (the GO dispersion) in several stages of the fibre spinning process. The coagulation composition and spinning conditions are evaluated in detail, which led to the production of densely packed fibres with near-circular cross-sections and highly ordered GO domains. The results are knittable GO fibres with Young's modulus of ∼7.9 GPa, tensile strength of ∼135.8 MPa, breaking strain of ∼5.9%, and toughness of ∼5.7 MJ m-3. The combination of suitable spinning method, coagulation composition, and spinning conditions led to GO fibres with remarkable toughness; the key factor in their successful knitting. This work highlights important progress in realising the full potential of GO fibres as a new class of textile.

Highly twisted oriented polymer fibres and carbon nanotube yarns show large scale torsional actuation from volume expansion that can be induced, for example, thermally or by electrochemical charging. When formed into spring-like coils, the torsional actuation within the fibre or yarn generates powerful tensile actuation per muscle weight. For further development of these coil actuators and for the practical application of torsional actuators, it is important to standardise methods for characterising both the torsional stroke (rotation) and torque generated. By analogy with tensile actuators, we here introduce a method to measure both the free stroke and blocked torque in a one-end-tethered fibre. In addition, the torsional actuation can be measured when operating against an externally applied torque (isotonic) and actuation against a return spring fibre (variable torque). A theoretical treatment of torsional actuation was formulated using torsion mechanics and evaluated using a commercially available highly-oriented polyamide fibre. Good agreement between experimental measurements and calculated values was obtained. The analysis allows the prediction of torsional stroke under any external loading condition based on the fundamental characteristics of the actuator: free stroke and stiffness.

A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-stabilized polypyrrole nanodispersion has been optimised for conductivity and processability by decreasing the quantity of PVA before and after synthesis. A reduction of PVA before synthesis leads to the formation of particles with a slight increase in dry particle diameter (51 ± 6 to 63 ± 3 nm), and conversely a reduced hydrodynamic diameter. Conductivity of the dried nanoparticle films was not measureable after a reduction of PVA prior to synthesis. Using filtration of particles after synthesis, PVA content was sufficiently reduced to achieve dried thin film conductivity of 2 S cm−1, while the electroactivity of the dispersed particles remained unchanged. The as-synthesized and PVA-reduced polypyrrole particles were successfully spun into all-nanoparticle fibres using a wet-extrusion approach without the addition of any polymer or gel matrix. Using nanoparticles as a starting material is a novel approach, which allowed the production of macro-scale fibres that consisted entirely of polypyrrole nanoparticles. Fibres made from PVA-reduced polypyrrole showed higher electroactivity compared to fibres composed of the dispersion high in PVA. The mechanical properties of the fibres were also improved by reducing the amount of PVA present, resulting in a stronger, more ductile and less brittle fibre, which could find potential application in various fields.

Recent developments in graphene oxide fibre (GO) processing include exciting demonstrations of hand woven textile structures. However, it is uncertain whether the fibres produced can meet the processing requirements of conventional textile manufacturing. This work reports for the first time the production of highly flexible and tough GO fibres that can be knitted using textile machinery. The GO fibres are made by using a dry-jet wet-spinning method, which allows drawing of the spinning solution (the GO dispersion) in several stages of the fibre spinning process. The coagulation composition and spinning conditions are evaluated in detail, which led to the production of densely packed fibres with near-circular cross-sections and highly ordered GO domains. The results are knittable GO fibres with Young's modulus of ∼7.9 GPa, tensile strength of ∼135.8 MPa, breaking strain of ∼5.9%, and toughness of ∼5.7 MJ m-3. The combination of suitable spinning method, coagulation composition, and spinning conditions led to GO fibres with remarkable toughness; the key factor in their successful knitting. This work highlights important progress in realising the full potential of GO fibres as a new class of textile.

Highly twisted oriented polymer fibres and carbon nanotube yarns show large scale torsional actuation from volume expansion that can be induced, for example, thermally or by electrochemical charging. When formed into spring-like coils, the torsional actuation within the fibre or yarn generates powerful tensile actuation per muscle weight. For further development of these coil actuators and for the practical application of torsional actuators, it is important to standardise methods for characterising both the torsional stroke (rotation) and torque generated. By analogy with tensile actuators, we here introduce a method to measure both the free stroke and blocked torque in a one-end-tethered fibre. In addition, the torsional actuation can be measured when operating against an externally applied torque (isotonic) and actuation against a return spring fibre (variable torque). A theoretical treatment of torsional actuation was formulated using torsion mechanics and evaluated using a commercially available highly-oriented polyamide fibre. Good agreement between experimental measurements and calculated values was obtained. The analysis allows the prediction of torsional stroke under any external loading condition based on the fundamental characteristics of the actuator: free stroke and stiffness.

Highly twisted oriented polymer fibres and carbon nanotube yarns show large scale torsional actuation from volume expansion that can be induced, for example, thermally or by electrochemical charging. When formed into spring-like coils, the torsional actuation within the fibre or yarn generates powerful tensile actuation per muscle weight. For further development of these coil actuators and for the practical application of torsional actuators, it is important to standardise methods for characterising both the torsional stroke (rotation) and torque generated. By analogy with tensile actuators, we here introduce a method to measure both the free stroke and blocked torque in a one-end-tethered fibre. In addition, the torsional actuation can be measured when operating against an externally applied torque (isotonic) and actuation against a return spring fibre (variable torque). A theoretical treatment of torsional actuation was formulated using torsion mechanics and evaluated using a commercially available highly-oriented polyamide fibre. Good agreement between experimental measurements and calculated values was obtained. The analysis allows the prediction of torsional stroke under any external loading condition based on the fundamental characteristics of the actuator: free stroke and stiffness.

A polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-stabilized polypyrrole nanodispersion has been optimised for conductivity and processability by decreasing the quantity of PVA before and after synthesis. A reduction of PVA before synthesis leads to the formation of particles with a slight increase in dry particle diameter (51 ± 6 to 63 ± 3 nm), and conversely a reduced hydrodynamic diameter. Conductivity of the dried nanoparticle films was not measureable after a reduction of PVA prior to synthesis. Using filtration of particles after synthesis, PVA content was sufficiently reduced to achieve dried thin film conductivity of 2 S cm−1, while the electroactivity of the dispersed particles remained unchanged. The as-synthesized and PVA-reduced polypyrrole particles were successfully spun into all-nanoparticle fibres using a wet-extrusion approach without the addition of any polymer or gel matrix. Using nanoparticles as a starting material is a novel approach, which allowed the production of macro-scale fibres that consisted entirely of polypyrrole nanoparticles. Fibres made from PVA-reduced polypyrrole showed higher electroactivity compared to fibres composed of the dispersion high in PVA. The mechanical properties of the fibres were also improved by reducing the amount of PVA present, resulting in a stronger, more ductile and less brittle fibre, which could find potential application in various fields.

Recent developments in graphene oxide fibre (GO) processing include exciting demonstrations of hand woven textile structures. However, it is uncertain whether the fibres produced can meet the processing requirements of conventional textile manufacturing. This work reports for the first time the production of highly flexible and tough GO fibres that can be knitted using textile machinery. The GO fibres are made by using a dry-jet wet-spinning method, which allows drawing of the spinning solution (the GO dispersion) in several stages of the fibre spinning process. The coagulation composition and spinning conditions are evaluated in detail, which led to the production of densely packed fibres with near-circular cross-sections and highly ordered GO domains. The results are knittable GO fibres with Young's modulus of ∼7.9 GPa, tensile strength of ∼135.8 MPa, breaking strain of ∼5.9%, and toughness of ∼5.7 MJ m-3. The combination of suitable spinning method, coagulation composition, and spinning conditions led to GO fibres with remarkable toughness; the key factor in their successful knitting. This work highlights important progress in realising the full potential of GO fibres as a new class of textile.

We hereby present a new method of producing coaxial conducting polymer fibres loaded with an antibiotic drug that can then be subsequently released (or sustained) in response to electrical stimulation. The method involves wet-spinning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibre, which served as the inner core to the electropolymerised outer shell layer of polypyrrole (Ppy). Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (Cipro) was selected as the model drug and as the dopant in the Ppy synthesis. The release of Cipro in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) from the fibres was controlled by switching the redox state of Ppy.Cipro layer. Released Cipro under passive and stimulated conditions were tested against Gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was observed against both strains tested. These results confirm that Cipro retains antibacterial properties during fibre fabrication and electrochemically controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity testing utilising the neural B35 cell line confirmed the cytocompatibility of the drug loaded conducting fibres. Electrical conductivity, cytocompatibility and tuning release profile from this flexible fibre can lead to promising bionic applications such as neuroprosthetics and localised drug delivery.

Advances in the fabrication of neuroprosthetic electrodes have attracted considerable interest from biomedical researchers. These electrodes are incorporated into a neuroprosthetic device capable of, electrically stimulating and recording of neuron activity. Critical to the successful application of these electrodes is their biocompatibility, stable conductivity, lower impedance and flexibility whilst maintaining appropriate mechanical properties [1] .

Advances in the fabrication of neuroprosthetic electrodes have attracted considerable interest from biomedical researchers. These electrodes are incorporated into a neuroprosthetic device capable of, electrically stimulating and recording of neuron activity. Critical to the successful application of these electrodes is their biocompatibility, stable conductivity, lower impedance and flexibility whilst maintaining appropriate mechanical properties [1] .

We hereby present a new method of producing coaxial conducting polymer fibres loaded with an antibiotic drug that can then be subsequently released (or sustained) in response to electrical stimulation. The method involves wet-spinning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibre, which served as the inner core to the electropolymerised outer shell layer of polypyrrole (Ppy). Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (Cipro) was selected as the model drug and as the dopant in the Ppy synthesis. The release of Cipro in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) from the fibres was controlled by switching the redox state of Ppy.Cipro layer. Released Cipro under passive and stimulated conditions were tested against Gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was observed against both strains tested. These results confirm that Cipro retains antibacterial properties during fibre fabrication and electrochemically controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity testing utilising the neural B35 cell line confirmed the cytocompatibility of the drug loaded conducting fibres. Electrical conductivity, cytocompatibility and tuning release profile from this flexible fibre can lead to promising bionic applications such as neuroprosthetics and localised drug delivery.

The selective assembly of functionalised fibres produced by wet-spinning into implantable three dimensional contructs presents attractive prospects for the field of medical bionics[1]. In particular, the incorporation of biological factors and large numbers of cells within biocompatible and macroporous fibres is expected to deliver improvements to drug delivery platforms as well as to tissue engineering biotechnology[2, 3].

We hereby present a new method of producing coaxial conducting polymer fibres loaded with an antibiotic drug that can then be subsequently released (or sustained) in response to electrical stimulation. The method involves wet-spinning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibre, which served as the inner core to the electropolymerised outer shell layer of polypyrrole (Ppy). Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (Cipro) was selected as the model drug and as the dopant in the Ppy synthesis. The release of Cipro in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) from the fibres was controlled by switching the redox state of Ppy.Cipro layer. Released Cipro under passive and stimulated conditions were tested against Gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was observed against both strains tested. These results confirm that Cipro retains antibacterial properties during fibre fabrication and electrochemically controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity testing utilising the neural B35 cell line confirmed the cytocompatibility of the drug loaded conducting fibres. Electrical conductivity, cytocompatibility and tuning release profile from this flexible fibre can lead to promising bionic applications such as neuroprosthetics and localised drug delivery.

We hereby present a new method of producing coaxial conducting polymer fibres loaded with an antibiotic drug that can then be subsequently released (or sustained) in response to electrical stimulation. The method involves wet-spinning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibre, which served as the inner core to the electropolymerised outer shell layer of polypyrrole (Ppy). Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (Cipro) was selected as the model drug and as the dopant in the Ppy synthesis. The release of Cipro in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) from the fibres was controlled by switching the redox state of Ppy.Cipro layer. Released Cipro under passive and stimulated conditions were tested against Gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was observed against both strains tested. These results confirm that Cipro retains antibacterial properties during fibre fabrication and electrochemically controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity testing utilising the neural B35 cell line confirmed the cytocompatibility of the drug loaded conducting fibres. Electrical conductivity, cytocompatibility and tuning release profile from this flexible fibre can lead to promising bionic applications such as neuroprosthetics and localised drug delivery.

One of the main challenges in tissue engineering is to design and fabricate an appropriate 3D extra cellular matrix (ECM) with capability to tune the in vivo environment in conjugation with additional requirements for cells enhancement. The composition, topology and artichectures of ECM are critical to achieve the desirable functionality of tissue or organ to be regenerated [1].

To use rapid fibre spinning technologies for the creation of 3D constructs for cell delivery, tissue engineering and the study of 3D cellular interactions. This study describes the fabrication of biosynthetic soft gel fibers containing myoblasts and myogenic growth factors and their use for restoration of dystrophin expression in dystrophic mdx mouse muscle.

Advances in the fabrication of neuroprosthetic electrodes have attracted considerable interest from biomedical researchers. These electrodes are incorporated into a neuroprosthetic device capable of, electrically stimulating and recording of neuron activity. Critical to the successful application of these electrodes is their biocompatibility, stable conductivity, lower impedance and flexibility whilst maintaining appropriate mechanical properties [1] .

We hereby present a new method of producing coaxial conducting polymer fibres loaded with an antibiotic drug that can then be subsequently released (or sustained) in response to electrical stimulation. The method involves wet-spinning of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) fibre, which served as the inner core to the electropolymerised outer shell layer of polypyrrole (Ppy). Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (Cipro) was selected as the model drug and as the dopant in the Ppy synthesis. The release of Cipro in phosphate buffered saline (PBS) from the fibres was controlled by switching the redox state of Ppy.Cipro layer. Released Cipro under passive and stimulated conditions were tested against Gram positive (Streptococcus pyogenes) and Gram negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria. Significant inhibition of bacterial growth was observed against both strains tested. These results confirm that Cipro retains antibacterial properties during fibre fabrication and electrochemically controlled release. In vitro cytotoxicity testing utilising the neural B35 cell line confirmed the cytocompatibility of the drug loaded conducting fibres. Electrical conductivity, cytocompatibility and tuning release profile from this flexible fibre can lead to promising bionic applications such as neuroprosthetics and localised drug delivery.

One of the main challenges in tissue engineering is to design and fabricate an appropriate 3D extra cellular matrix (ECM) with capability to tune the in vivo environment in conjugation with additional requirements for cells enhancement. The composition, topology and artichectures of ECM are critical to achieve the desirable functionality of tissue or organ to be regenerated [1].

Advances in the fabrication of neuroprosthetic electrodes have attracted considerable interest from biomedical researchers. These electrodes are incorporated into a neuroprosthetic device capable of, electrically stimulating and recording of neuron activity. Critical to the successful application of these electrodes is their biocompatibility, stable conductivity, lower impedance and flexibility whilst maintaining appropriate mechanical properties [1] .

The selective assembly of functionalised fibres produced by wet-spinning into implantable three dimensional contructs presents attractive prospects for the field of medical bionics[1]. In particular, the incorporation of biological factors and large numbers of cells within biocompatible and macroporous fibres is expected to deliver improvements to drug delivery platforms as well as to tissue engineering biotechnology[2, 3].

To use rapid fibre spinning technologies for the creation of 3D constructs for cell delivery, tissue engineering and the study of 3D cellular interactions. This study describes the fabrication of biosynthetic soft gel fibers containing myoblasts and myogenic growth factors and their use for restoration of dystrophin expression in dystrophic mdx mouse muscle.

The extraordinary properties of graphene and carbon nanotubes motivate the development of methods for their use in producing continuous, strong, tough fibres. Previous work has shown that the toughness of the carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer fibres exceeds that of previously known materials. Here we show that further increased toughness results from combining carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide flakes in solution-spun polymer fibres. The gravimetric toughness approaches 1,000 J g − 1, far exceeding spider dragline silk (165 J g − 1) and Kevlar (78 J g − 1). This toughness enhancement is consistent with the observed formation of an interconnected network of partially aligned reduced graphene oxide flakes and carbon nanotubes during solution spinning, which act to deflect cracks and allow energy-consuming polymer deformation. Toughness is sensitive to the volume ratio of the reduced graphene oxide flakes to the carbon nanotubes in the spinning solution and the degree of graphene oxidation. The hybrid fibres were sewable and weavable, and could be shaped into high-modulus helical springs

The extraordinary properties of graphene and carbon nanotubes motivate the development of methods for their use in producing continuous, strong, tough fibres. Previous work has shown that the toughness of the carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer fibres exceeds that of previously known materials. Here we show that further increased toughness results from combining carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide flakes in solution-spun polymer fibres. The gravimetric toughness approaches 1,000 J g − 1, far exceeding spider dragline silk (165 J g − 1) and Kevlar (78 J g − 1). This toughness enhancement is consistent with the observed formation of an interconnected network of partially aligned reduced graphene oxide flakes and carbon nanotubes during solution spinning, which act to deflect cracks and allow energy-consuming polymer deformation. Toughness is sensitive to the volume ratio of the reduced graphene oxide flakes to the carbon nanotubes in the spinning solution and the degree of graphene oxidation. The hybrid fibres were sewable and weavable, and could be shaped into high-modulus helical springs

The extraordinary properties of graphene and carbon nanotubes motivate the development of methods for their use in producing continuous, strong, tough fibres. Previous work has shown that the toughness of the carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer fibres exceeds that of previously known materials. Here we show that further increased toughness results from combining carbon nanotubes and reduced graphene oxide flakes in solution-spun polymer fibres. The gravimetric toughness approaches 1,000 J g − 1, far exceeding spider dragline silk (165 J g − 1) and Kevlar (78 J g − 1). This toughness enhancement is consistent with the observed formation of an interconnected network of partially aligned reduced graphene oxide flakes and carbon nanotubes during solution spinning, which act to deflect cracks and allow energy-consuming polymer deformation. Toughness is sensitive to the volume ratio of the reduced graphene oxide flakes to the carbon nanotubes in the spinning solution and the degree of graphene oxidation. The hybrid fibres were sewable and weavable, and could be shaped into high-modulus helical springs