Iranian scientists develop ultra-light nanofabric for medical and electronic industries

Researchers in Iran have designed a next-generation nanofabric that combines light weight, flexibility, and multifunctionality, opening new possibilities for use across the textile, medical, and electronic sectors. This is reported by IRNA, a partner of TV BRICS.

The fabric, based on metallised polyamide, delivers an exceptional balance of properties: protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI), electrothermal and photothermal heating, as well as antibacterial performance. Experts say the innovation could play a vital role in advancing wearable technologies, medical textiles and smart electronic systems.

Electromagnetic shielding is one of the key achievements of the material. Tests showed that the optimised sample achieved a shielding effectiveness of 55.4 decibels, while maintaining an ultralight density of just 0.113 grams per cubic centimetre. This makes it one of the lightest fabrics ever developed to provide such robust protection against electromagnetic waves.

The fabric also demonstrated strong heating performance. Under a voltage of 5 volts, it reached temperatures as high as 133.5°C in electrothermal testing, while photothermal experiments under light exposure of 800 milliwatts per square centimetre produced a temperature of 77.9°C.

Such properties make the textile suitable for heated clothing in cold climates and for energy-efficient wearables that generate warmth without direct power sources. According to the researchers, this nanofabric represents a major step forward in smart materials science.

It could be applied in multiple industries: in electronics, to protect sensitive devices from electromagnetic disruption; in healthcare, to produce antibacterial and disinfectable equipment; and in textiles, to create lightweight garments that provide both comfort and protection.

Photo: Jacob Wackerhausen / iStock