Skin-Inspired Ultra-Tough Supramolecular Multifunctional Hydrogel Electronic Skin for Human–Machine Interaction

Abstract

AbstractMultifunctional supramolecular ultra-tough bionic e-skin with unique durability for human–machine interaction in complex scenarios still remains challenging. Herein, we develop a skin-inspired ultra-tough e-skin with tunable mechanical properties by a physical cross-linking salting-freezing-thawing method. The gelling agent (β-Glycerophosphate sodium: Gp) induces the aggregation and binding of PVA molecular chains and thereby toughens them (stress up to 5.79 MPa, toughness up to 13.96 MJ m−3). Notably, due to molecular self-assembly, hydrogels can be fully recycled and reprocessed by direct heating (100 °C for a few seconds), and the tensile strength can still be maintained at about 100% after six recoveries. The hydrogel integrates transparency (> 60%), super toughness (up to 13.96 MJ m−3, bearing 1500 times of its own tensile weight), good antibacterial properties (E. coli and S. aureus), UV protection (Filtration: 80%–90%), high electrical conductivity (4.72 S m−1), anti-swelling and recyclability. The hydrogel can not only monitor daily physiological activities, but also be used for complex activities underwater and message encryption/decryption. We also used it to create a complete finger joint rehabilitation system with an interactive interface that dynamically presents the user’s health status. Our multifunctional electronic skin will have a profound impact on the future of new rehabilitation medical, human–machine interaction, VR/AR and the metaverse fields.