High-Sensitivity Flexible Sensors Based on Island-Bridge Configuration for Real-Time Posture Monitoring Systems
Ning Ding, Yan Bai, Zhenjiang You, Shiyan Wang, Longlu Wang, Weiwei Zhao, Yuhui Feng, Feifei Lin, Yuzhe Chen, Xiang Zou, Xiaoyuan Jia, Mengyue Jiang, Wen Lv, Shujuan Liu, Qiang Zhao
Abstract
High-sensitivity, flexible sensors are crucial for precise posture monitoring in wearable electronics. Conventional single conductive network hydrogels suffer from limited strain-impedance response due to isolated conductive fillers. Herein, we propose a novel conjugative effect-assisted internal island-bridge mechanism to construct a sophisticated binary conductive network through p−π stacking and electrostatic interaction between MXene islands and PEDOT:PSS bridges. This island-bridge configuration enables effective disruption and restoration during deformation, overcoming the limitations of single conductive networks. Optimized PVA/MXene/PEDOT:PSS (PMP) hydrogels achieve remarkable 188% increase in conductivity (σ = 21.09 S cm –1 ) and 98% improvement in sensitivity (GF = 2.31). This exceptional strain-impedance response allows for precise detection of complex joint movements. Furthermore, we developed a lightweight (31 g), low-power (40 mW) wearable posture monitoring system (WPMS) integrating PMP sensors with wireless communication modules for real-time health management through postural analysis and correction. This work presents a theoretical framework for designing high-sensitivity flexible sensors based on island-bridge configurations, advancing the intersection of healthcare and wearable electronics.