A Single Electronic Tattoo for Multisensory Integration

Small Methods. 2023 Apr;7(4):e2201566. doi: 10.1002/smtd.202201566. Epub 2023 Feb 21.

Abstract

Wearable electronics are garnering growing interest in various emerging fields including intelligent sensors, artificial limbs, and human-machine interfaces. A remaining challenge is to develop multisensory devices that can conformally adhere to the skin even during dynamic-moving environments. Here, a single electronic tattoo (E-tattoo) based on a mixed-dimensional matrix network, which integrates two-dimensional MXene nanosheets and one-dimensional cellulose nanofibers/Ag nanowires, is presented for multisensory integration. The multidimensional configurations endow the E-tattoo with excellent multifunctional sensing capabilities including temperature, humidity, in-plane strain, proximity, and material identification. In addition, benefiting from the satisfactory rheology of hybrid inks, the E-tattoos are able to be fabricated through multiple facile strategies including direct writing, stamping, screen printing, and three-dimensional printing on various hard/soft substrates. Especially, the E-tattoo with excellent triboelectric properties also can serve as a power source for activating small electronic devices. It is believed that these skin-conformal E-tattoo systems can provide a promising platform for next-generation wearable and epidermal electronics.

Keywords: MXenes; cellulose nanofibers; electronic skins; multifunctionality; sensing.

MeSH terms

  • Electronics
  • Epidermis
  • Humans
  • Skin
  • Tattooing* / methods

Substances

  • MXene