Thermoelectric Hydrogel Electronic Skin for Passive Multimodal Physiological Perception

Abstract

Electronic skins (e-skins) are being extensively researched for their ability to recognize physiological data and deliver feedback via electrical signals. However, their wide range of applications is frequently restricted by the indispensableness of external power supplies and single sensory function. Here, we report a passive multimodal e-skin for real-time human health assessment based on a thermoelectric hydrogel. The hydrogel network consists of poly(vinyl alcohol)/low acyl gellan gum with [Fe(CN) 6 ] 4−/3− as the redox couple. The introduction of glycerol and Li + furnishes the gel-based e-skin with antidrying and antifreezing properties, a thermopower of 2.04 mV K −1 , fast selfhealing in less than 10 min, and high conductivity of 2.56 S m −1 . As a prospective application, the e-skin can actively perceive multimodal physiological signals without the need for decoupling, including body temperature, pulse rate, and sweat content, in real time by synergistically coupling sensing and transduction. This work offers a scientific basis and designs an approach to develop passive multimodal e-skins and promotes the application of wearable electronics in advanced intelligent medicine.

Unlocking the Potential of Wearable Sensors in Healthcare and Beyond

“…While the sensors themselves do not necessarily need to be novel, innovation in sensor design, utility, or implementation needs to be clearly articulated. Some examples of recent innovation in physical sensors include the rapid self-healing hydrogel that maintains ultralow electrical hysteresis, microstructured pressure sensors that show high sensitivity to foot posture, and thermoelectric hydrogel-based electronic skin for sensing temperature, pulse rate, and sweat content . We anticipate that innovation in the device form factor coupled with meaningful applications of physical sensors will contribute to opportunities of physical sensors to advance healthcare, enhance training of athletes, improve physical therapy, and ease rehabilitation.…”