Fully nano/micro-fibrous triboelectric on-skin patch with high breathability and hydrophobicity for physiological status monitoring

Recent advancements in flexible electronics have imposed the challenge on developing multifunctional devices for long-term on-skin wearing comfort. Here, a self-powered fully nano/micro-fibrous triboelectric on-skin patch is developed. The all-polymer-based poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)/polyvinyl alcohol nanofibrous membrane is used as the electrode for the first time, and polyimide/thermoplastic polyurethane (1:1) nanofibrous membrane along with thermoplastic polyurethane nano/micro-fibrous membrane work for contact electrification pairs. The patch exhibits excellent breathability with the water vapor transmittance rate of 8 kg m(-2) day(-1), and hydrophobicity with the water contact angle of 113. The capability of the patch for physiological status monitoring is further demonstrated through applications of fingertip interaction force detection, pronunciation sensing, human motion monitoring, and finger gesture recognition, representing the promising potential in interactive on-skin devices and health monitoring.

Automated summary

A self-powered nano/micro-fibrous triboelectric on-skin patch has been developed, which exhibits excellent breathability and hydrophobicity. The patch is capable of physiological status monitoring.