Multiaxial and Transparent Strain Sensors Based on Synergetically Reinforced and Orthogonally Cracked Hetero-Nanocrystal Solids

Abstract

Wearable strain sensors are widely researched as core components in electronic skin. However, their limited capability of detecting only a single axial strain, and their low sensitivity, stability, opacity, and high production costs hinder their use in advanced applications. Herein, multiaxially highly sensitive, optically transparent, chemically stable, and solution-processed strain sensors are demonstrated. Transparent indium tin oxide and zinc oxide nanocrystals serve as metallic and insulating components in a metal-insulator matrix and as active materials for strain gauges. Synergetic sensitivity- and stability-reinforcing agents are developed using a transparent SU-8 polymer to enhance the sensitivity and encapsulate the devices, elevating the gauge factor up to over 3000 by blocking the reconnection of cracks caused by the Poisson effect. Cross-shaped patterns with an orthogonal crack strategy are developed to detect a complex multiaxial strain, efficiently distinguishing strains applied in various directions with high sensitivity and selectivity. Finally, all-transparent wearable strain sensors with Ag nanowire electrodes are fabricated using an all-solution process, which effectively measure not only the human motion or emotion, but also the multiaxial strains occurring during human motion in real time. The strategies can provide a pathway to realize cost-effective and high-performance wearable sensors for advanced applications such as bio-integrated devices.