Laser Direct Writing Inkless Flexible Sensor

Abstract

The high flexibility, ductility, small size, portability, and ability to conform to the human body make flexible sensors highly promising for various applications in smart wearable devices, clinical disease diagnosis, health monitoring, electronic skin, and soft robotics. However, the practical application of this technology is limited by high fabrication costs and complex preparation processes. We proposed a method for preparing flexible electronic wires by utilizing laser direct writing of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) doped with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). Through an in-depth study on the design principle, preparation process, and sensing characteristics, we successfully designed and prepared resistive flexible sensors. The developed electronic wires exhibit excellent stretchability, rapid response, recovery performance, and high stability, enabling efficient measurement of resistance changes. The laser-induced carbonization method for preparing electronic wires offers several advantages over silver nanowires and conductive inks, including flexible design, easy fabrication, energy efficiency, and environmental friendliness. This is expected to stimulate further investigation of novel structural sensors and the development of high-performance sensor technology.