Recent progress on tattoo-like electronics: From materials and structural designs to versatile applications

Zhao, Kai; Zhao, Yanbo; Qian, Rong; Ye, Changqing

doi:10.1016/j.cej.2023.147109

Cited by 3 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…Electronic tattoos (e-tattoos), also known as epidermal electronics, present a class of ultrathin and ultrasoft wearable electronics that can conform well to the skin surface without obstructing skin deformation (Figure ). The conformable interface with human skin is a unique feature that differentiates e-tattoos from other forms of wearable electronics. − It enables better electrical, thermal, optical, deformation, and mass transfer across the skin–tattoo interface; it suppresses detachment and minimizes relative motion between the skin and the e-tattoo, reducing motion artifacts during skin deformation; it does not affect natural skin functionalities such as deformation or touch sensation. Since Rogers group reported the first e-tattoo in 2011, a range of e-tattoos with diverse functionalities have been developed and applied to various anatomical locations, with representative examples depicted in Figure .…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

E-Tattoos: Toward Functional but Imperceptible Interfacing with Human Skin

Li,

Tan,

Rao

et al. 2024

Chem. Rev.

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The human body continuously emits physiological and psychological information from head to toe. Wearable electronics capable of noninvasively and accurately digitizing this information without compromising user comfort or mobility have the potential to revolutionize telemedicine, mobile health, and both human−machine or human−metaverse interactions. However, state-of-the-art wearable electronics face limitations regarding wearability and functionality due to the mechanical incompatibility between conventional rigid, planar electronics and soft, curvy human skin surfaces. E-Tattoos, a unique type of wearable electronics, are defined by their ultrathin and skin-soft characteristics, which enable noninvasive and comfortable lamination on human skin surfaces without causing obstruction or even mechanical perception. This review article offers an exhaustive exploration of e-tattoos, accounting for their materials, structures, manufacturing processes, properties, functionalities, applications, and remaining challenges. We begin by summarizing the properties of human skin and their effects on signal transmission across the e-tattoo-skin interface. Following this is a discussion of the materials, structural designs, manufacturing, and skin attachment processes of e-tattoos. We classify e-tattoo functionalities into electrical, mechanical, optical, thermal, and chemical sensing, as well as wound healing and other treatments. After discussing energy harvesting and storage capabilities, we outline strategies for the system integration of wireless e-tattoos. In the end, we offer personal perspectives on the remaining challenges and future opportunities in the field.

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