Silver Nanowire/Silver/Poly(dimethylsiloxane) as Strain Sensors for Motion Monitoring

Abstract

Stretchable resistive sensors attract wide attention due to their feasible fabrication method and promising application prospect, while the sensitivity (gauge factor (GF)) and response time for quick and effective response in working are very important for stretchable resistive sensors. Herein, a facile method combined with solution coating and laser direct writing is promoted to fabricate a silver nanowire/silver/poly(dimethylsiloxane) (AgNW/Ag/PDMS) strain sensor. The reduced Ag welds the AgNWs to make the conductive layer robust for deformation, and the obtained stretchable resistive sensor has a high GF of 623.2, a short response time of 51 ms, a recovery time of 50 ms, a wide sensing range beyond 35%, and good cyclic repeatability (over 2000 times). The sensor features highly sensitive and stable performance for monitoring diverse human and mechanical motions, demonstrating a promising and attractive application for wearable devices and human–machine interaction.