Highly sensitive, flexible, and biocompatible iontronic pressure sensor based on porous composite electrode for biomechanical signal monitoring

초록

Iontronic capacitive sensors can achieve high sensitivity by introducing microstructures that reduce the initial contact area at the electrode-dielectric interface. The mechanical deformability of the electrodes can affect the contact area under applied pressure, but this factor has been relatively underexplored. In this study, porous polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) composite electrodes were introduced to enhance both sensitivity and deformability. The sensors exhibit a wide detection range of 0-1000 kPa, a high sensitivity of 39.9 kPa- 1, and a low detection limit of 0.5 Pa. This performance arises from the porous electrodes, reducing the initial contact area and lowering the effective compressive modulus, optimizing contact with the dielectric layer. Moreover, the porous electrodes facilitate air and moisture transport and demonstrate stable operation under varying humidity conditions, supporting their biocompatibility. The sensors monitored real-time signals induced by body movements and recorded plantar pressure distribution, demonstrating their potential for wearable biomechanical applications.

키워드