Stretchable, Transparent, and Self-Patterned Hydrogel-Based Pressure Sensor for Human Motions Detection

In this study, a binary networked conductive hydrogel is prepared using acrylamide and polyvinyl alcohol. Based on the obtained hydrogel, an ultrastretchable pressure sensor with biocompatibility and transparency is fabricated cost effectively. The hydrogel exhibits impressive stretchability (>500%) and superior transparency (>90%). Furthermore, the self-patterned microarchitecture on the hydrogel surface is beneficial to achieve high sensitivity (0.05 kPa⁻¹ for 0–3.27 kPa). The hydrogel-based pressure sensor can precisely monitor dynamic pressures (3.33, 5.02, and 6.67 kPa) with frequency-dependent behavior. It also shows fast response (150 ms), durable stability (500 dynamic cycles), and negligible current variation (6%). Moreover, the sensor can instantly detect both tiny (phonation, airflowing, and saliva swallowing) and robust (finger and limb motions) physiological activities. This work presents insights into preparing multifunctional hydrogels for mechanosensory electronics.