Wearable sensors based on colloidal nanocrystals

Abstract

In recent times, wearable sensors have attracted significant attention in various research fields and industries. The rapid growth of the wearable sensor related research and industry has led to the development of new devices and advanced applications such as bio-integrated devices, wearable health care systems, soft robotics, and electronic skins, among others. Nanocrystals (NCs) are promising building blocks for the design of novel wearable sensors, due to their solution processability and tunable properties. In this paper, an overview of NC synthesis, NC thin film fabrication, and the functionalization of NCs for wearable applications (strain sensors, pressure sensors, and temperature sensors) are provided. The recent development of NC-based strain, pressure, and temperature sensors is reviewed, and a discussion on their strategies and operating principles is presented. Finally, the current limitations of NC-based wearable sensors are discussed, in addition to methods to overcome these limitations.