Stretchable hybrid platform-enabled interactive perception of strain sensing and visualization

Human-machine interactive platforms that can sense mechanical stimuli visually and digitally are highly desirable. However, most existing interactive devices cannot satisfy the demands of tactile feedback and extended integration. Inspired by the mechanoluminescence (ML) function of cephalopod skin and the sensitive perception of microcracked slit-organs, a bioinspired stretchable interactive platform is developed by designing a stretchable poly(styrene-block-butadiene-block-styrene)/fluorescent molecule (SFM) composite followed by the in situ polymerization of pyrrole (Py) and deposition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which possesses a simple multilayered structure and quantitatively senses the applied strains via the variations of digital electrical resistance and visual fluorescence intensity. Using the strain-dependent microstructures derived from the synergistic interactions of the rigid PPy/CNTs functional layer and SFM, the SFM/PPy/CNTs-based platforms exhibit excellent strain-sensing performance manifested by a high gauge factor (GF = 2.64 x 10(4)), wide sensing range (similar to 270%), fast response/recovery time (similar to 155/195 ms), excellent stability (similar to 15,000 cycles at 40% strain), and sensitive ML characteristics under ultraviolet illumination. Benefiting from the novel fusion of digital data and visual images, important applications, including the detection of wrist pulses and human motions, and information dual-encryption, are demonstrated. This study demonstrates the superiority of advanced structures and materials for realizing superior applications in wearable electronics.

Automated summary

This study developed a stretchable bioinspired interactive platform that can quantitatively sense applied strains through variations in digital electrical resistance and visual fluorescence intensity. The platform exhibited excellent strain-sensing performance, stability, and sensitivity to mechanical stimuli. The fusion of digital data and visual images enabled important applications such as pulse detection, human motion tracking, and information encryption.