Flexible skin-attachable strain-gauge sensors are an essential component in the development of artificial systems that can mimic the complex characteristics of the human skin. In general, such sensors contain a number of circuits or complex layered matrix arrays. Here, we present a simple architecture for a flexible and highly sensitive strain sensor that enables the detection of pressure, shear and torsion. The device is based on two interlocked arrays of high-aspect-ratio Pt-coated polymeric nanofibres that are supported on thin polydimethylsiloxane layers. When different sensing stimuli are applied, the degree of interconnection and the electrical resistance of the sensor changes in a reversible, directional manner with specific, discernible strain-gauge factors. The sensor response is highly repeatable and reproducible up to 10,000 cycles with excellent on/off switching behaviour. We show that the sensor can be used to monitor signals ranging from human heartbeats to the impact of a bouncing water droplet on a superhydrophobic surface.

By employing the neutral plane concept, we demonstrated ultra-flexible perovskite solar cells that can withstand 100 cycles of crumpling.

A reversible interlocker that is inspired by the wing locking device of beetles is presented. It exploits the van der Waals force-assisted binding between high-aspect-ratio polymer fibers. The two-layered interlocker is highly flexible and displays an extremely high shear locking force and easy normal lift-off.