Vacuum-Assisted Layer-by-Layer Carbon Nanotube/Ti3C2TX MXene Films for Detecting Human Movements

The rapid development of the Internet of Things has promoted the application of wearable devices in human's daily life and industrialization. Strain sensors play an indispensable role as a member of wearable devices. Here, a strain film sensor with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and Ti3C2TX MXene, which is obtained by vacuum-assisted filtration and integrated onto a thermoplastic polyurethane substrate, is developed. Since the MWCNTs and Ti3C2TX MXene composite sensor has a characteristic 'mud-brick' microstructure. The sensor has the ability to detect various human movements, such as, bending of finger joints, wrists, elbow joints, and shoulder. The sensors show excellent mechanical property and can be folded more than 2000 times without failure. It also exhibits short response time, low detection limit, and wide range of use. In addition, the sensor shows excellent electrical heating performance. The temperature of the composite film can rise to 96.6 degrees C in a short period of time even under low voltage power supply (25 V). It likewise proves its excellent performance in terms of cyclability and long-time heating capability. The film has low production cost, easy preparation method, and simple operation. The MWCNT/Ti3C2TX MXene film can be integrated into wearable devices and shows great potential for future applications.

Automated summary

The strain film sensor composed of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and Ti3C2TX MXene exhibits excellent mechanical properties and detection capabilities, making it suitable for detecting human movements. Compared to traditional sensors, it has faster response times and a wider range of applications.