Bio-inspired spreadable multi-signal self-sensing covering composite material for intelligent devices

The spreadable materials with multi-sensing capabilities offer a wide range of application possibilities. They can be applied directly to the surface of intelligent devices, facilitating the creation of self-sensing shells. Despite significant progress in the development of such materials, expanding their diverse sensing capabilities remains a critical focus in this field. Here, we present a spreadable material endowed with multiple signal self-sensing capabilities. The material, which can be easily applied to the surface of devices, offers real-time monitoring of temperature, humidity, and device damage. This material comprised carbon black nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, exhibiting excellent electrical conductivity. It exhibited a temperature coefficient of resistivity (TCR) of approximately 0.35%per°C, a humidity sensing sensitivity ranging from 3.57 to 4.31 Ω/RH%, and a strain sensing sensitivity gauge factor value of approximately 2.3. We anticipate that the proposed strategy utilizing spreadable multi-signal sensing materials will be extensively applied to the surfaces of various intelligent equipment, thereby furnishing a diverse range of signal data crucial for both safeguarding intelligent systems and enhancing environmental monitoring capabilities.