Overview
IEC TR 62899-250:2025 explores critical material technologies in printed electronics for wearable smart devices (WSDs). Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) as part of the IEC 62899 series, this technical report supports standardization activities in TC 119 (Printed Electronics), targeting both industry growth and technological advancement in the fast-evolving field of wearable electronics. The report assesses recent trends, addresses new technical issues since the first edition, and reviews the expanded landscape of international standardization efforts crucial to WSD development and market expansion.
Key updates in this edition include:
- Expanded classification for e-textile integration in wearables
- Analysis and verification of previous standardization conclusions
- New insights into 3D printed circuits’ relevance for wearable devices
- A focused review of standardization activities post-2016
- Identification of unresolved and emerging technical challenges
Key Topics
1. Wearable Smart Device (WSD) Types:
The document classifies WSDs based on their integration and form factor:
- Accessory type: Bracelets, smart watches, eyewear, and similar user-friendly devices
- Textile integrated type: E-textiles in clothing with biomedical signal acquisition and communication functionality
- Skin patchable type: Ultra-thin, flexible patches adhering directly to skin surfaces
- Body implantable type: Biocompatible devices for implantation within the body
2. Material and Process Requirements:
Achieving the usability and safety of WSDs demands:
- Flexibility and stretchability in electrical circuits and substrates
- Biocompatibility, sweat- and water-resistance, and low-power operation
- Highly durable wiring, especially suited for clothing subject to washing and repeated use
3. Technological Advances & Standardization Needs:
Recent advances evaluated in the report include:
- 3D printed circuit technologies for creating complex, three-dimensional wiring structures
- Multilayer and through-hole printing techniques on porous or textile substrates
- Transfer printing methods for embedding electronics into fabrics with challenging surfaces
4. Standardization Initiatives:
The report maps out the global standardization landscape, emphasizing the role of organizations like IEC, ISO, IPC, ASTM, AATCC, SEMI, and collaborative initiatives such as the Additive Manufacturing Standardization Collaborative (AMSC). Coordination aims to address parallel or overlapping work, manage safety requirements, and enable future interoperability.
Applications
IEC TR 62899-250:2025 directly benefits stakeholders in:
- Healthcare: Development of biomedical sensors, smart patches, and implantable monitors leveraging safe, flexible printed electronics
- Sports and Fitness: Wearable devices embedded in clothing or accessories for performance monitoring and data collection
- Consumer Electronics: Next-generation smartwatches, augmented reality eyewear, and smart textiles for daily use
- Textiles and Fashion: E-textiles that combine electronics with durable, washable fabrics for interactive and functional clothing
The standard identifies pathways and challenges for technology providers, designers, and manufacturers to align with internationally recognized safety, material, and interoperability expectations, enhancing market access and innovation.
Related Standards
IEC TR 62899-250:2025 references and is complemented by several standards:
- IEC 62899-202-10: Resistance measurement for thermoformable conducting layers
- IEC 62899-201-2: Properties of stretchable substrates in printed electronics
- IEC 62899-202-4: Measurement methods for properties of stretchable printed layers
- IEC 62899-202-3: Contactless methods for measuring sheet resistance of conductive films
- IEC 63203-406-1: Test methods for measuring temperature in skin-contact, wrist-worn wearable devices
- IEC/ISO 23510: Framework for additive manufacturing service platforms
By following these and related standards listed in the bibliography, practitioners ensure their materials and products meet evolving expectations in printed electronics for wearable smart devices.
Keywords: IEC TR 62899-250, printed electronics, wearable smart devices, standardization, e-textiles, 3D printed circuits, flexible electronics, material technologies, biocompatibility, international standards.