Advances in Textile-Based Triboelectric Sensors for Physiological Signal Monitoring

The incorporation of sensing and therapeutic capabilities into everyday textiles can be an effective approach for the development of continuous and wearable sensors. Textile-based triboelectric sensors are ideal candidates for capturing tiny physiological signals of the human body to prevent chronic diseases owing to their compelling features of high sensitivity, excellent breathability, and programmable structure. In this review, the working mechanisms, material selection, manufacturing techniques, and structural designs of textile-constructed triboelectric nanogenerators are comprehensively presented. An in-depth analysis of physiological signal monitoring applications ranging from cardiovascular monitoring, electrocardiogram, electromyography, respiratory monitoring, and sleep monitoring to exercise monitoring is thoughtfully demonstrated. Furthermore, a closed-loop smart textile wearable system, including active sensing, energy supply, real-time feedback, data processing, and healthcare, is proposed to address major challenges and bottlenecks in wearable technology. It is expected that this review will provide the audience with some universal strategies and novel ideas for conducting in-depth research on textile-based triboelectric sensors with improved performance.