Triboelectric electronic-skin based on graphene quantum dots for application in self-powered, smart, artificial fingers. (July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xu, Zhongwei; Wu, Chaoxing; Li, Fushan; Chen, Wei; Guo, Tailiang; Kim, Tae Whan
• Is Part Of: Nano energy. Volume 49(2018)
• Page Start: 274
• Page End: 282
• Publication Date: 2018-07
• Subjects: Electronic-skin -- Artificial finger -- Graphene quantum dot -- Self-powered electronics -- Triboelectric nanogenerator; Nanoscience -- Periodicals; Nanotechnology -- Periodicals; Nanostructured materials -- Periodicals; Power resources -- Technological innovations -- Periodicals; Nanoscience; Nanostructured materials; Nanotechnology; Power resources -- Technological innovations; Periodicals; 621.042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.nanoen.2018.04.059
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-2855

Abstract

Abstract: The development of electronic-skin (e-skin) with artificial tactile-perception is crucial for emerging artificial-intelligence systems. However, considering the relatively simple function of existing e-skins, their performances still have much room for improvement. Here, a cuttable, transparent, stretchable, and lightweight e-skin that functions on the basis of the triboelectric effect is demonstrated. Well-designed micro-gaps are introduced to make the e-skin respond sensitively to various mechanical stimulations, including pressing, stretching, folding, and twisting. Ag nanowires coated with graphene quantum dots are employed as the electrode, as well as the friction layer, to increase the sensitivity to external mechanical stimulations. Self-powered, smart, artificial fingers with tactile sensation to monitor the actions of the fingers were fabricated to demonstrate the potential application of our newly developed e-skin. The architecture and the material system of the device demonstrated in this work will promote the development of human-machine interfaces and intelligent machines. Graphical abstract: fx1 Highlights: E-skins on the basis of the triboelectric effect are demonstrated. The e-skin responds sensitively to various mechanical stimulations. Graphene quantum dot-coated Ag nanowires are employed to increase the sensitivity to the mechanical stimulations. Self-powered, smart, artificial fingers based on the e-skins are demonstrated.