Biodegradable pressure sensors with high sensitivity and wide detection range via a piezoresistive/capacitive dual response†

Abstract

Eco-friendly strategies are strongly needed to address the issue of e-waste pollution. Green electronics constructed from degradable polymers have attracted widespread attention. In this paper, a piezoresistive/capacitive dual-response pressure sensor (DRPS) utilizing biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) nonwovens was fabricated. Instead of a conventional compressive dielectric layer, we employed a MWCNT/PLA piezoresistive fabric (CPPF), incorporating it with a capacitive pressure sensor. The DRPS's dual response impact differs from porosity compared to purely capacitive sensors. The dual resistance/capacitance design enhances sensor sensitivity across broad pressure ranges. The DRPS can measure diverse pressures, from light leaf loads to heavy footsteps and bending motions of human joints.