Monolithically integrated flexible sensing systems with multi-dimensional printable MXene electrodes

Manufacturing flexible integrated sensing systems by combining versatile printable inks and diverse printing techniques allows for the monolithic utilization of the electrochemical/sensing performance of individual devices. Herein, we developed an integration strategy for fabricating high-performance flexible integrated sensing systems by utilization of multi-dimensional printable MXene electrodes. With branched polyethyleneimine (BPEI) serving as joining sites and flexible spacers, the flexible printed electrodes exhibited weak self-restacking, high interlayer charge carrier transporting ability, and remarkably enhanced mechanical robustness. As a result, the printed micro-supercapacitors (MSCs) showed ultrahigh areal capacitance (3783.53 mF cm(-2) at a scan rate of 1 mV s(-1)), outstanding flexibility (stable after 1000 bending/release cycles), high energy density (99.4 mu W h cm(-2)) and high power density (18 mW cm(-2)). Besides, the printed strain sensor board displayed high sensitivity over a wide working strain range (e.g., gauge factor: 11 781.5 in the 41-52% strain range). These results represent the record values in most state-of-the-art devices. In addition, an all-in-one flexible sensing system integrated with both an MSC and a strain sensor on a flexible substrate is demonstrated, which exhibited exceptional sensitivity to body movements. This proposed strategy paves a high-efficiency pathway toward high-performance, monolithically integrated electronics.

Automated summary

Manufacturing flexible integrated sensing systems using printable inks and printing techniques results in improved electrochemical and sensing performance. The study presents a strategy for fabricating high-performance flexible integrated sensing systems using printable MXene electrodes. The printed electrodes exhibit weak self-restacking, high charge carrier transporting ability, and enhanced mechanical robustness. The printed micro-supercapacitors show high capacitance, flexibility, energy density, and power density. The printed strain sensor board displays high sensitivity in a wide working strain range. These results demonstrate the potential for highly efficient integrated electronics.