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Invited Talk: Swedish Expert Explores the Future of E-Textiles

Md Reazuddin Repon
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The Textile Chemistry Group of the Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems organized an invited talk on March 26, featuring Prof. Nils-Krister Persson from the University of Borås, Sweden. The session was chaired by Prof. Ali Tehrani, Head of the Textile Chemistry Group.
Lecturer in a modern auditorium presenting a slide titled “Merging Textiles and Electronics – and Beyond”.
University lecture on textiles and electronics; students in tiered seats watch two speakers by a large screen.

In his presentation titled “Merging Textiles and Electronics – and Beyond,” Prof. Persson, head of the Smart Textiles Technology Lab at the University of Borås, shared the latest developments and future directions in the fast-growing field of electronic textiles (e-textiles).

E-textiles, which integrate embedded electronic functionality into traditional fabrics, represent a major transformation in how materials are designed for human use. “Modern textile research is now blurring the line between material and device,” Prof. Persson noted, underscoring that textiles can now act as interactive systems rather than passive materials.

He highlighted how conductive fibers and embedded sensors enable fabrics to sense, respond, and even aid in medical applications. Examples ranged from wearable health monitoring systems and assistive textiles to innovations in soft robotics and adaptive materials. These advances promise to merge therapy, prevention, and comfort into continuous, textile-based healthcare solutions.

Prof. Persson, a pioneer in Sweden’s smart textile research, leads interdisciplinary work in fibretronics, ionotronics, medical and assistive textiles, soft actuators, and sustainable textile technologies. His research spans applications from textile-based pain management and rehabilitation systems to water purification and eco-friendly electronic materials.

The event showcased both the scientific innovation and human-centered potential of smart textiles, a field poised to reshape future healthcare, wellbeing, and material engineering.

Lecture hall with students watching a textile presentation on a large screen at the front
Lecture hall with students watching a man present photos of equipment on a large screen
Lecture hall with students watching a slide on e-textile systems; lecturer stands by the front whiteboard.
Lecturer addresses small, diverse audience in tiered wood-panelled lecture hall with red seats.
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