Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden have developed a pioneering method to produce electrically conductive plastics on a larger scale. The discovery marks a significant step toward cost-effective, sustainable, and safe production of materials that could transform the fields of wearable technology, healthcare, and organic electronics.

Biocompatible and versatile

Unlike metals, conductive plastics—known scientifically as conjugated polymers—are lightweight, flexible, and compatible with the human body. This makes them especially suited for applications such as electronic adhesive plasters, medical sensors, and smart textiles that can monitor health conditions, deliver medication, or connect directly to mobile devices. Their flexibility and compatibility with moisture, sweat, and blood also enable innovative bioelectronic implants and skin-friendly wearables.

A safer and more sustainable process

Traditional methods for producing conductive plastics rely on toxic chemicals and energy-intensive procedures. The new recipe, developed by accident during lab experiments, allows production at room temperature using benign ingredients. This not only reduces environmental and health risks but also cuts costs by eliminating the need for special waste handling and protective processes.

According to the research team, the new method also improves conductivity, enabling more powerful and efficient organic electronics. The material itself, which shimmers like gold, avoids reliance on scarce metals or rare earth elements, offering a more sustainable alternative for the electronics sector.

Design opportunities across disciplines

For fashion and product designers, the potential lies in creating self-cooling clothing, responsive fabrics, or accessories that interact with the body. Interior and packaging designers may explore flexible conductive surfaces or smart packaging with integrated sensors. In architecture, while not a structural material, the technology could inspire interactive wall systems, health-monitoring environments, or energy-harvesting surfaces.

Towards wider applications

The next challenge is scaling up production for industrial use. Once available in larger volumes, conductive plastics could play a role in energy storage, 3D printed electronics, and advanced biomedical applications. The researchers are optimistic that their discovery will accelerate the integration of conductive plastics into both high-tech industries and everyday design solutions.

Source & photos: Chalmers University of Technology