Strain- and strain rate-invariant conductance in a stretchable and compressible 3D conducting polymer foam
Journal
Matter
Date
2019.07.10
Abstract
Advances in stretchable conductors have been one of the main driving forces behind the realization of wearable and epidermal electronics. However, retaining constant strain-property relationships under varying strain and strain rate remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate a 3D structuring approach towards strain-accommodating, bio-compliant conductors. In contrast to previous stretchable conductors, this method leads to polymeric materials with conductance that has zero dependence on (1) both tensile and compressive strain over an 80％ strain range, and (2) strain rate from 2.5-2560 ％/min. Their Young’s moduli can be controllably tuned between ~4-300 kPa. In addition, these conductors are ultra-lightweight and can be molded into virtually any shape and size. Their properties mimic the dynamic and softness of biological systems, rendering this a versatile platform for designing electronic materials that can potentially form intimate interfaces with human.