Janus Conductive Mechanism: An Innovative Strategy Enabling Ultra‐Wide Linearity Range Pressure Sensing for Multi‐Scenario Applications

Abstract

The wide range of pressure detection and the exceptional linearity are essential performance parameters for flexible pressure sensors, enabling them to adapt to diverse scenarios and acquire information accurately. However, currently available “ultra‐wide range” piezoresistive sensors lack an optimal solution that effectively balances sensing properties, device thickness, and process cost. This study proposes a distinctive approach by introducing a Janus conductive structure assembled with dual resistive sensitive layers. The design allows for a pressure‐induced staged transformation of the current transport path, effectively mitigating variations and saturation in sensor resistance over a wide pressure range. The resulting piezoresistive sensor demonstrates an unprecedented detection range of 0–3800 kPa, showcasing remarkable sensitivity of 4.11 kPa−1 and outstanding linearity of 99.9% within the range of 0–1000 kPa. Additionally, the sensor boasts a thickness of only ≈200 µm, made possible through the utilization of a cellulose nanofibers material matrix. These performance achievements stand at the forefront when compared to existing reports. This research explores the potential applications of these sensors and extended arrays in the domains of human health and motion monitoring. It investigates their utility in gait analysis for assisted posture correction, as well as in the assessment and rehabilitation of gait instability.

Electronic Skin for Health Monitoring Systems: Properties, Functions, and Applications

“…[158][159][160][161] Piezoresistive sensors convert the changes in the length or area of a sensing element caused by external stimuli into resistance changes, generally following the law of resistance. [162][163][164][165] Most piezoresistive sensors have high stretchability and sensitivity but generally exhibit nonlinearity and significant hysteresis. [166] For instance, Lu et al prepared a piezoresistive strain sensor us-ing the multiple noncovalent crosslinking strategy, as shown in Figure 4b.…”

High-Performance Wearable Piezoresistive Sensor with a Wide Temperature Range via a Ti3C2Tx MXene/Au Dual-Layer Conductive Network and Microspike Structure

“…Specifically, when the sensor is subjected to pressure, the contact area between the electrodes increases, causing a significant change in current. − Therefore, the selection of active materials and the design of substrate structures are the top priorities of related research. Thanks to the rapid development of materials science, many micro/nanointelligent materials have been successfully applied to the fabrication of sensing devices. ,, In particular, functional materials such as metal nanoparticles/wires, ,− carbon nanotubes, ,− graphene, − and conductive polymers − are ideally suited to be used as active materials for flexible piezoresistive sensors because of the advantages of low production cost, good electrical conductivity, and stable mechanical properties. Zhao et al prepared a graphene/gelatin-functionalized pressure sensor using a simple cyclic dipping–drying method, which can sense various movements and physiological signals of the human body .…”