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Yang X, Chen W, Fan Q, Chen J, Chen Y, Lai F, Liu H. Electronic Skin for Health Monitoring Systems: Properties, Functions, and Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2402542. [PMID: 38754914 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202402542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Electronic skin (e-skin), a skin-like wearable electronic device, holds great promise in the fields of telemedicine and personalized healthcare because of its good flexibility, biocompatibility, skin conformability, and sensing performance. E-skin can monitor various health indicators of the human body in real time and over the long term, including physical indicators (exercise, respiration, blood pressure, etc.) and chemical indicators (saliva, sweat, urine, etc.). In recent years, the development of various materials, analysis, and manufacturing technologies has promoted significant development of e-skin, laying the foundation for the application of next-generation wearable medical technologies and devices. Herein, the properties required for e-skin health monitoring devices to achieve long-term and precise monitoring and summarize several detectable indicators in the health monitoring field are discussed. Subsequently, the applications of integrated e-skin health monitoring systems are reviewed. Finally, current challenges and future development directions in this field are discussed. This review is expected to generate great interest and inspiration for the development and improvement of e-skin and health monitoring systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xichen Yang
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Wenzheng Chen
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Qunfu Fan
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Jing Chen
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Yujie Chen
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Feili Lai
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
| | - Hezhou Liu
- State Key Lab of Metal Matrix Composites, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 00240, P. R. China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Advanced Ship and Dee-Sea Exploration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
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Jia L, Li Y, Ren A, Xiang T, Zhou S. Degradable and Recyclable Hydrogels for Sustainable Bioelectronics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:32887-32905. [PMID: 38904545 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c05663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogel bioelectronics has been widely used in wearable sensors, electronic skin, human-machine interfaces, and implantable tissue-electrode interfaces, providing great convenience for human health, safety, and education. The generation of electronic waste from bioelectronic devices jeopardizes human health and the natural environment. The development of degradable and recyclable hydrogels is recognized as a paradigm for realizing the next generation of environmentally friendly and sustainable bioelectronics. This review first summarizes the wide range of applications for bioelectronics, including wearable and implantable devices. Then, the employment of natural and synthetic polymers in hydrogel bioelectronics is discussed in terms of degradability and recyclability. Finally, this work provides constructive thoughts and perspectives on the current challenges toward hydrogel bioelectronics, providing valuable insights and guidance for the future evolution of sustainable hydrogel bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lianghao Jia
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Yuanhong Li
- Department of Orthodontics, Shanghai Stomatological Hospital, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Craniomaxillofacial Development and Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai 200001, China
| | - Aobo Ren
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Tao Xiang
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Shaobing Zhou
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, College of Medicine, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
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Xie T, Ou F, Ning C, Tuo L, Zhang Z, Gao Y, Pan W, Li Z, Gao W. Dual-network carboxymethyl chitosan conductive hydrogels for multifunctional sensors and high-performance triboelectric nanogenerators. Carbohydr Polym 2024; 333:121960. [PMID: 38494218 DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2024.121960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
With the development of technology, there is a growing demand for wearable electronics that can fulfill different application scenarios. Hydrogel-based sensors are considered ideal candidates for realizing multifunctional wearable flexible devices. However, there are great challenges in preparing hydrogel-based sensors with both superior mechanical and electrical properties. Herein, we report a composite conductive hydrogel prepared by using a dynamically crosslinked carboxymethyl chitosan network and a covalently crosslinked polymer network, and carboxylated carbon nanotubes as conductive filler. The carboxymethyl chitosan-based hydrogels had excellent mechanical properties and strength (tensile strength of 475.4 kPa, and compressive strength of 1.9 MPa) and ultra-high conductivity (0.19 S·cm-1). Based on the above characteristics, the hydrogel could accurately identify the movement signals of the human body and different writing signals, and achieve encrypted transmission of signals, broadening the application scenarios. In addition, a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) was fabricated based on the hydrogel, which had an outstanding output performance with open-circuit voltage of 336 V, short-circuit current of 18 μA, transferred charge of 52 nC and maximum power density of 340 mW·m-2, and could power small devices. This work is expected to provide new ideas for the development of self-powered, multi-functional wearable, and flexible polysaccharide-based devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Xie
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Fangyan Ou
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Chuang Ning
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Liang Tuo
- Center on Nanoenergy Research, Guangxi Colleges and Universities Key Laboratory of Blue Energy and Systems Integration, School of Physical Science & Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zhichao Zhang
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Yi Gao
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Wenyu Pan
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zequan Li
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Wei Gao
- School of Resources, Environment and Materials, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Engineering and Technology Research Center for High Quality Structural Panels from Biomass Wastes, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; State Key Laboratory of Featured Metal Materials and Life-cycle Safety for Composite Structures, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Key Laboratory of Disaster Prevention and Structural Safety of Ministry of Education, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Disaster Prevention and Engineering Safety, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, Guangxi, China.
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Zhu J, Li J, Tong Y, Hu T, Chen Z, Xiao Y, Zhang S, Yang H, Gao M, Pan T, Cheng H, Lin Y. Recent progress in multifunctional, reconfigurable, integrated liquid metal-based stretchable sensors and standalone systems. PROGRESS IN MATERIALS SCIENCE 2024; 142:101228. [PMID: 38745676 PMCID: PMC11090487 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmatsci.2023.101228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Possessing a unique combination of properties that are traditionally contradictory in other natural or synthetical materials, Ga-based liquid metals (LMs) exhibit low mechanical stiffness and flowability like a liquid, with good electrical and thermal conductivity like metal, as well as good biocompatibility and room-temperature phase transformation. These remarkable properties have paved the way for the development of novel reconfigurable or stretchable electronics and devices. Despite these outstanding properties, the easy oxidation, high surface tension, and low rheological viscosity of LMs have presented formidable challenges in high-resolution patterning. To address this challenge, various surface modifications or additives have been employed to tailor the oxidation state, viscosity, and patterning capability of LMs. One effective approach for LM patterning is breaking down LMs into microparticles known as liquid metal particles (LMPs). This facilitates LM patterning using conventional techniques such as stencil, screening, or inkjet printing. Judiciously formulated photo-curable LMP inks or the introduction of an adhesive seed layer combined with a modified lift-off process further provide the micrometer-level LM patterns. Incorporating porous and adhesive substrates in LM-based electronics allows direct interfacing with the skin for robust and long-term monitoring of physiological signals. Combined with self-healing polymers in the form of substrates or composites, LM-based electronics can provide mechanical-robust devices to heal after damage for working in harsh environments. This review provides the latest advances in LM-based composites, fabrication methods, and their novel and unique applications in stretchable or reconfigurable sensors and resulting integrated systems. It is believed that the advancements in LM-based material preparation and high-resolution techniques have opened up opportunities for customized designs of LM-based stretchable sensors, as well as multifunctional, reconfigurable, highly integrated, and even standalone systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Zhu
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Jiaying Li
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Yao Tong
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Taiqi Hu
- School of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Ganzhou 341000, P. R. China
| | - Ziqi Chen
- School of Physical Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026, PR China
| | - Yang Xiao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Senhao Zhang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Hongbo Yang
- Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Science, Suzhou 215011, PR China
| | - Min Gao
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Taisong Pan
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
| | - Huanyu Cheng
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Yuan Lin
- School of Material and Energy, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
- Medico-Engineering Cooperation on Applied Medicine Research Center, University of Electronics Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China
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Shin Y, Lee HS, Hong YJ, Sunwoo SH, Park OK, Choi SH, Kim DH, Lee S. Low-impedance tissue-device interface using homogeneously conductive hydrogels chemically bonded to stretchable bioelectronics. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadi7724. [PMID: 38507496 PMCID: PMC10954228 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi7724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Stretchable bioelectronics has notably contributed to the advancement of continuous health monitoring and point-of-care type health care. However, microscale nonconformal contact and locally dehydrated interface limit performance, especially in dynamic environments. Therefore, hydrogels can be a promising interfacial material for the stretchable bioelectronics due to their unique advantages including tissue-like softness, water-rich property, and biocompatibility. However, there are still practical challenges in terms of their electrical performance, material homogeneity, and monolithic integration with stretchable devices. Here, we report the synthesis of a homogeneously conductive polyacrylamide hydrogel with an exceptionally low impedance (~21 ohms) and a reasonably high conductivity (~24 S/cm) by incorporating polyaniline-decorated poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene:polystyrene). We also establish robust adhesion (interfacial toughness: ~296.7 J/m2) and reliable integration between the conductive hydrogel and the stretchable device through on-device polymerization as well as covalent and hydrogen bonding. These strategies enable the fabrication of a stretchable multichannel sensor array for the high-quality on-skin impedance and pH measurements under in vitro and in vivo circumstances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoonsoo Shin
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Su Lee
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Yongseok Joseph Hong
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-Hyuk Sunwoo
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ok Kyu Park
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sueng Hong Choi
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Radiology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyeong Kim
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- School of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Institute of Chemical Processes, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sangkyu Lee
- Center for Nanoparticle Research, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
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Rahmani P, Shojaei A, Sakorikar T, Wang M, Mendoza-Apodaca Y, Dickey MD. Liquid Metal Nanoparticles Physically Hybridized with Cellulose Nanocrystals Initiate and Toughen Hydrogels with Piezoionic Properties. ACS NANO 2024; 18:8038-8050. [PMID: 38437220 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c11063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
Liquid metal (LM) particles can serve as initiators, functional fillers, and cross-linkers for hydrogels. Herein, we show that cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) stabilize LM particles in aqueous solutions, such as those used to produce hydrogels. The CNC-coated LM particles initiate free-radical polymerization to form poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) hydrogel with exceptional properties─stretchability ∼2000%, excellent toughness ∼1.8 MJ/m3, mechanical resilience, and efficient self-healing─relative to cross-linked PAA networks polymerized using conventional molecular initiators. FTIR spectroscopy, rheology, and mechanical measurements suggest that physical bonds between PAA and both Ga3+ and LM-CNC particles contribute to the excellent mechanical properties. The gels are used to sense a wide range of strains, such as those associated with human motion, via changes in resistance through the gel. The sensitivity at low strains enables monitoring subtle physiological signals, such as pulse. Without significantly compromising the toughness, soaking the gels in salt solution brings about high ionic conductivity (3.8 S/m), enabling them to detect touch via piezoionic principles; the anions in the gel have higher mobility than cations, resulting in significant charge separation (current ∼30 μA, ∼10 μA/cm2) through the gel in response to touch. These attractive properties are promising for wearable sensors, energy harvesters, and self-powered ionic touch panels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooria Rahmani
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P.O. Box 11155-9465, Tehran 14588-89694, Iran
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905, United States
| | - Akbar Shojaei
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, P.O. Box 11155-9465, Tehran 14588-89694, Iran
| | - Tushar Sakorikar
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905, United States
| | - Meixiang Wang
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905, United States
| | - Yuniva Mendoza-Apodaca
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905, United States
| | - Michael D Dickey
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695-7905, United States
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Qi J, Yang S, Jiang Y, Cheng J, Wang S, Rao Q, Jiang X. Liquid Metal-Polymer Conductor-Based Conformal Cyborg Devices. Chem Rev 2024; 124:2081-2137. [PMID: 38393351 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.3c00317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Gallium-based liquid metal (LM) exhibits exceptional properties such as high conductivity and biocompatibility, rendering it highly valuable for the development of conformal bioelectronics. When combined with polymers, liquid metal-polymer conductors (MPC) offer a versatile platform for fabricating conformal cyborg devices, enabling functions such as sensing, restoration, and augmentation within the human body. This review focuses on the synthesis, fabrication, and application of MPC-based cyborg devices. The synthesis of functional materials based on LM and the fabrication techniques for MPC-based devices are elucidated. The review provides a comprehensive overview of MPC-based cyborg devices, encompassing their applications in sensing diverse signals, therapeutic interventions, and augmentation. The objective of this review is to serve as a valuable resource that bridges the gap between the fabrication of MPC-based conformal devices and their potential biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Qi
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
- Guangzhou Municipal and Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Target & Clinical Pharmacology, the NMPA and State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences and the Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 511436, P. R. China
| | - Shuaijian Yang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
| | - Yizhou Jiang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Cardiovascular Disease, Fuwai Hospital, National Center for Cardiovascular Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100037, P. R. China
| | - Jinhao Cheng
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
| | - Saijie Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
| | - Qingyan Rao
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
| | - Xingyu Jiang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Smart Healthcare Engineering, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Biomaterials, Department of Biomedical Engineering. Southern University of Science and Technology, No. 1088, Xueyuan Rd, Xili, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, P. R. China
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Lu G, Ni E, Jiang Y, Wu W, Li H. Room-Temperature Liquid Metals for Flexible Electronic Devices. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2304147. [PMID: 37875665 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202304147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Room-temperature gallium-based liquid metals (RT-GaLMs) have garnered significant interest recently owing to their extraordinary combination of fluidity, conductivity, stretchability, self-healing performance, and biocompatibility. They are ideal materials for the manufacture of flexible electronics. By changing the composition and oxidation of RT-GaLMs, physicochemical characteristics of the liquid metal can be adjusted, especially the regulation of rheological, wetting, and adhesion properties. This review highlights the advancements in the liquid metals used in flexible electronics. Meanwhile related characteristics of RT-GaLMs and underlying principles governing their processing and applications for flexible electronics are elucidated. Finally, the diverse applications of RT-GaLMs in self-healing circuits, flexible sensors, energy harvesting devices, and epidermal electronics, are explored. Additionally, the challenges hindering the progress of RT-GaLMs are discussed, while proposing future research directions and potential applications in this emerging field. By presenting a concise and critical analysis, this paper contributes to the advancement of RT-GaLMs as an advanced material applicable for the new generation of flexible electronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guixuan Lu
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250061, China
| | - Erli Ni
- The Institute for Advanced Studies of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430072, China
| | - Yanyan Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250061, China
| | - Weikang Wu
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250061, China
| | - Hui Li
- Key Laboratory for Liquid-Solid Structural Evolution and Processing of Materials (Ministry of Education), School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250061, China
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Jeong HB, Kim C, Lee A, Kim HY. Sequential Multimodal Morphing of Single-Input Pneu-Nets. Soft Robot 2023; 10:1137-1145. [PMID: 37335938 DOI: 10.1089/soro.2022.0216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Soft actuators provide an attractive means for locomotion, gripping, and deployment of those machines and robots used in biomedicine, wearable electronics, automated manufacturing, etc. In this study, we focus on the shape-morphing ability of soft actuators made of pneumatic networks (pneu-nets), which are easy to fabricate with inexpensive elastomers and to drive with air pressure. As a conventional pneumatic network system morphs into a single designated state, achieving multimodal morphing has required multiple air inputs, channels, and chambers, making the system highly complex and hard to control. In this study, we develop a pneu-net system that can change its shape into multiple forms as a single input pressure increases. We achieve this single-input and multimorphing by combining pneu-net modules of different materials and geometry, while harnessing the strain-hardening characteristics of elastomers to prevent overinflation. Using theoretical models, we not only predict the shape evolution of pneu-nets with pressure change but also design pneu-nets to sequentially bend, stretch, and twist at distinct pressure points. We show that our design strategy enables a single device to carry out multiple functions, such as grabbing-turning a light bulb and holding-lifting a jar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Bi Jeong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Cheongsan Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Anna Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology, Pohang, South Korea
| | - Ho-Young Kim
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
- Seoul National University Institute of Advanced Machines and Design, Seoul, South Korea
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Cui J, Xu R, Dong W, Kaneko T, Chen M, Shi D. Skin-Inspired Patterned Hydrogel with Strain-Stiffening Capability for Strain Sensors. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:48736-48743. [PMID: 37812680 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c12127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
Flexible materials with ionic conductivity and stretchability are indispensable in emerging fields of flexible electronic devices as sensing and protecting layers. However, designing robust sensing materials with skin-like compliance remains challenging because of the contradiction between softness and strength. Herein, inspired by the modulus-contrast hierarchical structure of biological skin, we fabricated a biomimetic hydrogel with strain-stiffening capability by embedding the stiff array of poly(acrylic acid) (PAAc) in the soft polyacrylamide (PAAm) hydrogel. The stress distribution in both stiff and soft domains can be regulated by changing the arrangement of patterns, thus improving the mechanical properties of the patterned hydrogel. As expected, the resulting patterned hydrogel showed its nonlinear mechanical properties, which afforded a high strength of 1.20 MPa while maintaining a low initial Young's modulus of 31.0 kPa. Moreover, the array of PAAc enables the patterned hydrogel to possess protonic conductivity in the absence of additional ionic salts, thus endowing the patterned hydrogel with the ability to serve as a strain sensor for monitoring human motion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianbing Cui
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Ruisheng Xu
- Orthopedic Department, Affiliated Hospital of Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Weifu Dong
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Tatsuo Kaneko
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Mingqing Chen
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Dongjian Shi
- Key Laboratory of Synthetic and Biological Colloids, Ministry of Education, School of Chemical and Material Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
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11
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Yang Y, Lv C, Tan C, Li J, Wang X. Easy-to-Prepare Flexible Multifunctional Sensors Assembled with Anti-Swelling Hydrogels. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2023; 15:46417-46427. [PMID: 37733927 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c11117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed the development of flexible electronic materials. Flexible electronic devices based on hydrogels are promising but face the limitations of having no resistance to swelling and a lack of functional integration. Herein, we fabricated a hydrogel using a solvent replacement strategy and explored it as a flexible electronic material. This hydrogel was obtained by polymerizing 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in ethylene glycol and then immersing it in water. The synergistic effect of hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions endows this hydrogel with anti-swelling properties in water, and it also exhibits enhanced mechanical properties and outstanding self-bonding properties. Moreover, the modulus of the hydrogel is tissue-adaptable. These properties allowed the hydrogel to be simply assembled with a liquid metal (LM) to create a series of structurally complex and functionally integrated flexible sensors. The hydrogel was used to assemble resistive and capacitive sensors to sense one-, two-, and three-dimensional strains and finger touches by employing specific structural designs. In addition, a multifunctional flexible sensor integrating strain sensing, temperature sensing, and conductance sensing was assembled via simple multilayer stacking to enable the simultaneous monitoring of underwater motion, water temperature, and water quality. This work demonstrates a simple strategy for assembling functionally integrated flexible electronics, which should open opportunities in next-generation electronic skins and hydrogel machines for various applications, especially underwater applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongqi Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022, China
| | - Chunyang Lv
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022, China
| | - Chang Tan
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022, China
| | - Jingfang Li
- Key Laboratory of Functional Inorganic Material Chemistry (MOE), School of Chemistry and Materials Science, Heilongjiang University, Harbin 150080, China
| | - Xin Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Jilin Institute of Chemical Technology, Jilin 132022, China
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12
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Zhang Y, Wang S, Tian Y, Chen L, Du Y, Su G, Hu Y. Multi-Physically Cross-Linked Hydrogels for Flexible Sensors with High Strength and Self-Healing Properties. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3748. [PMID: 37765600 PMCID: PMC10536548 DOI: 10.3390/polym15183748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/02/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Excellent mechanical properties and self-healing properties are very important for the practical application of hydrogel flexible sensors. In this study, acrylic acid and stearyl methyl acrylate were selected as monomers to synthesize hydrophobic association hydrogels, and multi-physically cross-linked hydrogels were synthesized by adding ferric chloride and polyvinyl alcohol to introduce ion interaction and a hydrogen bond cross-linking network. The hydrogels were characterized by FTIR, XRD and SEM, and the mechanical properties and self-healing properties were tested using a universal testing machine. It was confirmed that the strength of the hydrogel was significantly improved with the addition of ferric chloride and polyvinyl alcohol, and the hydrogel still showed good self-healing properties. Further testing of its application as a conductive sensor has demonstrated sensitive and stable motion sensing capabilities. This provides an important reference for high-performance hydrogel sensors with both high strength and self-healing properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulin Zhang
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
- Leshan West Silicon Materials Photovoltaic and New Energy Industry Technology Research Institute, Leshan 614000, China
| | - Shiyu Wang
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
| | - Yi Tian
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
| | - Long Chen
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
| | - Yuhan Du
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
| | - Gehong Su
- College of Science, Sichuan Agricultural University, Xin Kang Road, Yucheng District, Ya’an 625014, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Engineering of Polymers, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China
| | - Yu Hu
- School of New Energy Materials and Chemistry, Leshan Normal University, Leshan 614000, China; (Y.Z.)
- Leshan West Silicon Materials Photovoltaic and New Energy Industry Technology Research Institute, Leshan 614000, China
- Material Corrosion and Protection Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Zigong 643000, China
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13
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Bai Y, Li X, Zheng C, Guo R, Li X. Liquid Metal Flexible EMG Gel Electrodes for Gesture Recognition. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:692. [PMID: 37504091 PMCID: PMC10377211 DOI: 10.3390/bios13070692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Gesture recognition has been playing an increasingly important role in the field of intelligent control and human-computer interaction. Gesture recognition technology based on electromyography (EMG) with high accuracy has been widely applied. However, conventional rigid EMG electrodes do not fit the mechanical properties of human skin. Therefore, rigid EMG electrodes are easily influenced by body movements, and uncomfortable to wear and use for a long time. To solve these problems, a stretchable EMG electrode based on liquid metal nanoparticles was developed in this research. It is conformal with human skin because of its similar mechanical properties to skin. Liquid metal nanoparticles mixed in polymer can be connected to each other to form conductive circuits when pressed by mechanical force. Therefore, this preparation method of liquid metal flexible gel electrodes is low-cost and can be fabricated largely. Moreover, the liquid metal flexible gel electrodes have great stretch ability. Their resistance increases slightly at maximum strain state. Based on these advantages, the flexible gel electrodes are applied to arm to collect EMG signals generated by human hand movements. In addition, the signals are analyzed by artificial intelligence algorithm to realize accurate gesture recognition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanru Bai
- School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
- School of Advanced Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaoqing Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Chengcai Zheng
- School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Rui Guo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Xisheng Li
- School of Automation and Electrical Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing 100083, China
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14
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Lin X, Wang X, Cui H, Rao P, Meng Y, Ouyang G, Guo H. Hydrogels with ultra-highly additive adjustable toughness under quasi-isochoric conditions. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2023; 10:993-1004. [PMID: 36651348 DOI: 10.1039/d2mh01451c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Bioinspired smart hydrogels with additive-switchable mechanical properties have been attracting increasing attention in recent years. However, most existing hydrogel systems suffer from limited stiffening amplitude and dramatic volume change upon response to environmental triggers. Herein, we propose a novel strategy to prepare additive-responsive hydrogels with ultra-highly adjustable toughness under quasi-isochoric conditions. The key point lies in tuning the softening transition temperature of the hydrogels with non-covalent interactions between the polymer networks and additives, shifting the hydrogels from glassy to rubbery states. As a proof of concept, a variety of glassy hydrogels are prepared and exposed to additives to trigger responsive performances. Young's modulus of the same hydrogel demonstrates up to 36 000 times ultra-broad-range tunability, ranging from 0.0042 to 150 MPa in response to different additives. Meanwhile, negligible volume changes occur, keeping the hydrogels in quasi-isochoric conditions. Interestingly, the mechanical behaviors of the hydrogels manifest remarkable dependence on the additive type and concentration since both the Hofmeister effect and hydrophobicity of the additives play pivotal roles according to mechanism investigations. Furthermore, the regulation with additives reveals satisfactory reversibility and universality. Taken together, this simple and effective approach provides a novel strategy to fabricate hydrogels with highly tunable toughness for versatile applications, including spatially patterned conductive gels and anti-icing coatings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxing Lin
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Chemistry & Energy Conservation of Guangdong Province, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China.
| | - Xiaolin Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, 999078, Macao
| | - Hongyuan Cui
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Chemistry & Energy Conservation of Guangdong Province, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China.
| | - Ping Rao
- State Key Laboratory of Fluid Power & Mechatronic System, Department of Engineering Mechanics, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Yuezhong Meng
- The Key Laboratory of Low-Carbon Chemistry & Energy Conservation of Guangdong Province/State Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Gangfeng Ouyang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Chemistry & Energy Conservation of Guangdong Province, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China.
| | - Hui Guo
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, The Key Laboratory of Low-carbon Chemistry & Energy Conservation of Guangdong Province, Sun Yat-sen University, Zhuhai, 519082, China.
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15
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Lan X, Xu S, Sun C, Zheng Y, Wang B, Shan G, Bao Y, Yu C, Pan P. Multi-Level Information Encryption/Decryption of Fluorescent Hydrogels Based on Spatially Programmed Crystal Phases. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2023; 19:e2205960. [PMID: 36538742 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202205960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The growing urgence of information protection promotes continuously the development of information-encryption technique. To date, hydrogels have become an emerging candidate for advanced information-encryption materials, because of their unique stimulus responsiveness. However, current methods to design multi-level information-encrypted hydrogels usually need sophisticated chemistry or experimental setup. Herein, a novel strategy is reported to fabricate hydrogels with multi-level information encryption/decryption functions through spatially programming the polymorphic crystal phases. As homocrystalline and stereocomplex crystal phases in fluorescent hydrogels have different solvent stabilities, the transparency and fluorescence of the hydrogels can be regulated, thereby enabling the multi-level encryption/decryption processes. Moreover, the structural origins behind these processes are discussed. It is believe that this work will inspire future research on developing advanced information-encryption materials upon programming the polymer crystal structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Shanshan Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Chenxuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
| | - Ying Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
| | - Bao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
| | - Guorong Shan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
| | - Yongzhong Bao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
| | - Chengtao Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
| | - Pengju Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, College of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou, 310027, China
- Institute of Zhejiang University-Quzhou, 78 Jiuhua Boulevard North, Quzhou, 324000, China
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16
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Ping B, Zhou G, Zhang Z, Guo R. Liquid metal enabled conformal electronics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1118812. [PMID: 36815876 PMCID: PMC9935617 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1118812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The application of three-dimensional common electronics that can be directly pasted on arbitrary surfaces in the fields of human health monitoring, intelligent robots and wearable electronic devices has aroused people's interest, especially in achieving stable adhesion of electronic devices on biological dynamic three-dimensional interfaces and high-quality signal acquisition. In recent years, liquid metal (LM) materials have been widely used in the manufacture of flexible sensors and wearable electronic devices because of their excellent tensile properties and electrical conductivity at room temperature. In addition, LM has good biocompatibility and can be used in a variety of biomedical applications. Here, the recent development of LM flexible electronic printing methods for the fabrication of three-dimensional conformal electronic devices on the surface of human tissue is discussed. These printing methods attach LM to the deformable substrate in the form of bulk or micro-nano particles, so that electronic devices can adapt to the deformation of human tissue and other three-dimensional surfaces, and maintain stable electrical properties. Representative examples of applications such as self-healing devices, degradable devices, flexible hybrid electronic devices, variable stiffness devices and multi-layer large area circuits are reviewed. The current challenges and prospects for further development are also discussed.
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17
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Kim M, Lim H, Ko SH. Liquid Metal Patterning and Unique Properties for Next-Generation Soft Electronics. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023; 10:e2205795. [PMID: 36642850 PMCID: PMC9951389 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202205795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Room-temperature liquid metal (LM)-based electronics is expected to bring advancements in future soft electronics owing to its conductivity, conformability, stretchability, and biocompatibility. However, various difficulties arise when patterning LM because of its rheological features such as fluidity and surface tension. Numerous attempts are made to overcome these difficulties, resulting in various LM-patterning methods. An appropriate choice of patterning method based on comprehensive understanding is necessary to fully utilize the unique properties. Therefore, the authors aim to provide thorough knowledge about patterning methods and unique properties for LM-based future soft electronics. First, essential considerations for LM-patterning are investigated. Then, LM-patterning methods-serial-patterning, parallel-patterning, intermetallic bond-assisted patterning, and molding/microfluidic injection-are categorized and investigated. Finally, perspectives on LM-based soft electronics with unique properties are provided. They include outstanding features of LM such as conformability, biocompatibility, permeability, restorability, and recyclability. Also, they include perspectives on future LM-based soft electronics in various areas such as radio frequency electronics, soft robots, and heterogeneous catalyst. LM-based soft devices are expected to permeate the daily lives if patterning methods and the aforementioned features are analyzed and utilized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minwoo Kim
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
| | - Hyungjun Lim
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringPohang University of Science and Technology77 Chungam‐ro, Nam‐guPohang37673South Korea
| | - Seung Hwan Ko
- Applied Nano and Thermal Science LabDepartment of Mechanical EngineeringSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
- Institute of Advanced Machinery and Design/Institute of Engineering ResearchSeoul National University1 Gwanak‐ro, Gwanak‐guSeoul08826South Korea
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18
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Zhao Z, Soni S, Lee T, Nijhuis CA, Xiang D. Smart Eutectic Gallium-Indium: From Properties to Applications. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2203391. [PMID: 36036771 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202203391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn), a liquid metal with a melting point close to or below room temperature, has attracted extensive attention in recent years due to its excellent properties such as fluidity, high conductivity, thermal conductivity, stretchability, self-healing capability, biocompatibility, and recyclability. These features of EGaIn can be adjusted by changing the experimental condition, and various composite materials with extended properties can be further obtained by mixing EGaIn with other materials. In this review, not only the are unique properties of EGaIn introduced, but also the working principles for the EGaIn-based devices are illustrated and the developments of EGaIn-related techniques are summarized. The applications of EGaIn in various fields, such as flexible electronics (sensors, antennas, electronic circuits), molecular electronics (molecular memory, opto-electronic switches, or reconfigurable junctions), energy catalysis (heat management, motors, generators, batteries), biomedical science (drug delivery, tumor therapy, bioimaging and neural interfaces) are reviewed. Finally, a critical discussion of the main challenges for the development of EGaIn-based techniques are discussed, and the potential applications in new fields are prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhibin Zhao
- Institute of Modern Optics and Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Saurabh Soni
- Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Takhee Lee
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Institute of Applied Physics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Korea
| | - Christian A Nijhuis
- Department of Molecules and Materials, MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, Molecules Center and Center for Brain-Inspired Nano Systems, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, 7500 AE, The Netherlands
| | - Dong Xiang
- Institute of Modern Optics and Center of Single Molecule Sciences, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Micro-scale Optical Information Science and Technology, Nankai University, 300350, Tianjin, P. R. China
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19
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Chen WT, Zeng L, Li P, Liu Y, Huang JL, Guo H, Rao P, Li WH. Convenient hydrogel adhesion with crystalline zones. J IND ENG CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jiec.2022.09.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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20
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Wu S, Guo J, Wang Y, Xie H, Zhou S. Cryopolymerized Polyampholyte Gel with Antidehydration, Self-Healing, and Shape-Memory Properties for Sustainable and Tunable Sensing Electronics. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:42317-42327. [PMID: 36067465 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.2c13223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Hydrogel-based wearable flexible electronics are attracting tremendous interest for use in human healthcare. However, many of the existing hydrogel electronics are often susceptible to dehydration, leading to weakened stretchability and inaccurate signal extraction. Besides, hydrogels are desired to be much smarter for self-repairing physical damage and enabling performance manipulation. Herein, we develop a kind of cryopolymerized polyampholyte gels with the multifunctionality of antidehydration, self-healing, and shape-memory for wearable sensing electronics. The antidehydration property is enabled by the incorporation of glycerol, endowing the sensing electronics with excellent stretchability and strain-sensing performance in long-term monitoring. The ionic bonds in the polyampholyte gel possess a dynamic feature regulated by alternant NaCl(aq) and H2O treatments, laying the foundation for self-healing and shape-memory. As a result, the sensing electronics can automatically repair physical damages without any sacrifice in sensing performance, after healing both conductivity and strain-sensing performance could return to the initial levels. The shape-memory function enables the temporal adjustment of the initial state of the sensing electronics; both the conductivity and sensing performance, for instance, signal intensity, can be manually manipulated. In all, the cryopolymerized polyampholyte gels with antidehydration, self-healing, and shape-memory properties can be an inspiration to develop sustainable and tunable gel-based electronics for human motion monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shanshan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Yilei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Hui Xie
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Shaobing Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Technologies of Materials, Ministry of Education, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
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