3D Printed Smart Polymeric Sensors for Real-Time Detection of Toxic Gases and Thermo-Mechanical Stress in Hazardous Environments

Topic description

Context:

Many high-risk environments, such as fires, industrial sites, or confined spaces, expose workers to extreme conditions combining invisible toxic gases (volatile organic compounds, CO, HCN, solvents and fumes), high temperatures, and significant mechanical stress associated with equipment and movement. Early detection of these hazards is a major health and safety challenge. However, there are currently no flexible sensors that can be integrated into garments or structures and capable of simultaneously monitoring chemical exposure, mechanical strain, and thermal conditions in real time.

Recent advances in additive manufacturing, functional polymer materials, and nanomaterials now offer a unique opportunity to develop smart, flexible sensors that can be integrated into technical textiles or lightweight structures. In particular, the use of piezoelectric polymers, conductive elastomers, and active fillers such as Metal...