Ultrasensitive and ultraflexible e-skins with dual functionalities for wearable electronics

TLDR: In this article, the authors demonstrate ultrathin, flexible multimodal sensing capability of e-skin sensor based on polyaniline hollow nanospheres composite films (PANI-HNSCF).

Abstract: The development of electronic skin is the key to the realization of artificial intelligence that immediate contacts with humans, as well as biomedical applications. To mimic the tactile sensing properties of natural skin, large ultrathin arrays of pixel high-performance pressure sensors on a flexible and stretchable substrate are required. Here, we demonstrate ultrathin, flexible multimodal sensing capability of e-skin sensor based on polyaniline hollow nanospheres composite films (PANI-HNSCF). Hollow structure endows the thin films with structure-derived elasticity and a low effective elastic modulus of 0.213 MPa. The effective amplification and transformation of various external stimuli to independent electrical signals enables the precise and continuous sensing of pressure and temperature with a high pressure sensitivity of 31.6 kPa−1 and an accurate temperature resolution of 0.08 °C−1. Importantly, the single sensing unit can be easily integrated sensor arrays with excellent sensing performance. Our work provided the technological verify between structure of materials and properties of device and make hollow materials possess promising application in e-skin and health-monitoring elements.