Recent progress on flexible and stretchable piezoresistive strain sensors: From design to application. (October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Duan, Lingyan; D'hooge, Dagmar R.; Cardon, Ludwig
• Is Part Of: Progress in materials science. Volume 114(2020)
• Publication Date: 2020-10
• Subjects: Flexible and stretchable sensors -- Sensing mechanism -- Geometric engineering -- Conductive polymer composites -- Performance optimization -- Structural design; Materials science -- Periodicals; Science des matériaux -- Périodiques; 620.1105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pmatsci.2019.100617
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0079-6425

Abstract

Abstract: Flexible and stretchable piezoresistive strain sensors which can translate mechanical stimuli (strain changes) into electrical signals (resistance changes) provide a simple and feasible detection tool in the field of health/damage monitoring, human motion detection, personal healthcare, human-machine interfaces, and electronic skin. Herein a detailed overview is presented on both strategies for sensing performance improvement and progress to medium or large-scale fabrication. A broad range of matrices/substrates and incorporated nanomaterials is covered and attention is paid to the current state-of-the-art of feasible but low-cost manufacturing methods. The sensor design parameters include sensitivity (gauge factor), stretchability, linearity, hysteresis, biocompatibility, and self-healing potential. Starting from fundamental sensing mechanisms, i.e. the tunneling effect, the disconnection mechanism, and the crack propagation mechanism, examples are provided from lab to application scale.