Liquid-metal patches turn any fabric into wearable electronics

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed an innovative iron-on electronic patch that transforms ordinary fabrics such as cotton, polyester, and spandex into wearable electronics. This patch combines liquid metal—microscopic droplets of a gallium-indium alloy dispersed in polyurethane—with a heat-activated adhesive, allowing it to bond securely to fabric using a standard household iron. The resulting thin, elastic film maintains electrical conductivity while enduring bending, stretching, and wrinkling, addressing common challenges faced by wearable electronics related to durability and comfort. Demonstrations of the technology included powering LEDs arranged in a university logo pattern and integrating a stretchable microphone wire into a shirt, which successfully captured audio comparable to traditional microphones while remaining nearly invisible. These prototypes highlight the patch’s potential for real-world applications, including health monitoring, environmental sensing, robotics, and human-machine interfaces. The researchers emphasize that this iron-on approach lowers barriers to wearable tech adoption by simplifying installation, potentially enabling the integration of soft sensors and embedded controls into everyday clothing. The study