Researchers at Texas A&M University have made strides in developing 3D-printed electronic skin (E-skin) that mimics the flexibility and sensitivity of human skin. The team created an e-skin that can flex, stretch, and sense like human skin using nanoengineered hydrogels with electronic and thermal biosensing capabilities. The E-skin holds significant potential for diverse applications, particularly in the industry of wearable health devices designed to monitor essential signs like motion, temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure.
This innovative technology can provide users with continuous feedback, assisting them in improving motor skills and coordination. The technology effectively tackles the challenges associated with crafting robust materials that emulate the flexibility of human skin, integrate bioelectrical sensing capabilities, and employ fabrication methods suitable for wearable or implantable devices. The research team introduced a triple-crosslinking strategy to enhance the hydrogel-based system, addressing stiffness concerns and facilitating signal transduction for more seamless interaction with the body's tissues.
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