Nanowire-Based Flexible Sensors for Wearable Electronics, Brain–Computer Interfaces, and Artificial Skins

Flexible electronic devices with compliant mechanical deformability and electrical reliability have been a focal point of research over the past decade, particularly in the fields of wearable devices, brain–computer interfaces (BCIs), and electronic skins. These emerging applications impose stringent requirements on flexible sensors, necessitating not only their ability to withstand dynamic strains and conform to irregular surfaces but also to ensure long-term stable monitoring. To meet these demands, one-dimensional nanowires, with high aspect ratios, large surface-to-volume ratios, and programmable geometric engineering, are widely regarded as ideal candidates for constructing high-performance flexible sensors. Various innovative assembly techniques have enabled the effective integration of these nanowires with flexible substrates. More excitingly, semiconductor nanowires, prepared through low-cost and efficient catalytic growth methods, have been successfully employed in the fabrication of highly flexible and stretchable nanoprobes for intracellular sensing. Additionally, nanowire arrays can be deployed on the cerebral cortex to record and analyze neural activity, opening new avenues for the treatment of neurological disorders. This review systematically examines recent advancements in nanowire-based flexible sensing technologies applied to wearable electronics, BCIs, and electronic skins, highlighting key design principles, operational mechanisms, and technological milestones achieved through growth, assembly, and transfer processes. These developments collectively advance high-performance health monitoring, deepen our understanding of neural activities, and facilitate the creation of novel, flexible, and stretchable electronic skins. Finally, we also present a summary and perspectives on the current challenges and future opportunities for nanowire-based flexible sensors.