Thermal and mechanical characterization of high performance polymer fabrics for applications in wearable devices.

With advances in flexible and wearable device technology, thermal regulation will become increasingly important. Fabrics and substrates used for such applications will be required to effectively spread any heat generated in the devices to ensure user comfort and safety, while also preventing overheating of the electronic components. Commercial fabrics consisting of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMW-PE) fibers are currently used in personal body armor and sports gear owing to their high strength, durability, and abrasion resistance.