A Wide-Range Linear and Stable Piezoresistive Sensor Based on Methylcellulose-Reinforced, Lamellar, and Wrinkled Graphene Aerogels

Graphene-based aerogels (GAs) have been extensively studied for pressure sensing applications due to their high compressibility and conductivity. But the usually-adopted high-temperature treatment generally damages the flexibility and stability. It is still challenging to prepare piezoresistive sensors with a wide linear range, and reliable cyclic performance. Herein, we demonstrate an excellent wide-range piezoresistive sensor based on an aerogel of methylcellulose reinforced reduced graphene oxide (MC/GA). A steaming reduction at 120 degrees C is proposed to properly control the intermolecular forces and the chemical bonding between MC and GA. The finite element analysis indicates that wrinkled lamellae with hierarchical pores are beneficial to minimize the stress concentrations. As a result of the combined architecture of reinforced, oriented, and wrinkled lamellae with hierarchical pores, the MC/GA has a superior linearity in a much wide range (0-17 kPa, R-2 > 0.997), a high sensitivity (9.38 kPa(-1)), a short response time (<40 ms) and a reliable cyclic performance (>99% retention). As demonstrations, the MC/GA sensor can monitor vital signs of the upper lip, throat or wrist, and can sense the large motion of the fingers, elbows, and feet. These advantages make the MC/GA sensor have a great potential in various health monitoring and motion-detecting fields.

Automated summary

This study introduces a novel wide-range piezoresistive sensor based on methylcellulose reinforced reduced graphene oxide aerogel, which shows superior linearity, high sensitivity, fast response time, and reliable cyclic performance, making it suitable for various health monitoring and motion detecting applications.