Bella Fricker Group

Introduction

Electronic skin is made from soft, thin layers of polymers, nanomaterials, and flexible electronics. Unlike rigid sensors, e-skin is designed to:

• Stretch and bend without damage

• Conform to curved surfaces

• Sense multiple stimuli at once

• Transmit data wirelessly or through built-in circuits

Its goal is to replicate the sensitivity and functionality of natural skin while offering additional capabilities such as self-healing, transparency, and biocompatibility.

Key Components of Electronic Skin

1. Flexible Substrates

   • Materials like silicone, polyurethane, and elastomers act as the base.

   • They provide stretchability and comfort.

2. SensorsElectronic skin may include:

   • Pressure and strain sensors

   • Temperature sensors

   • Humidity and sweat sensors

   • Chemical and biological sensors

   • Motion and acceleration sensors

3. Conductive Materials

   • Graphene, silver nanowires, carbon nanotubes, and conductive polymers.

   • These form circuits that can stretch without breaking.

4. Energy Sources

   • Thin batteries, energy harvesting systems, or wireless power transfer.

5. Data Transmission Modules

   • Wireless communication systems that send real-time information to external devices.

6. Self-Healing and Biocompatible Layers

   • Some e-skins use materials that repair small tears and are safe for direct contact with skin.