3D microprinting of QR-code integrated hydrogel tactile sensor for real-time E-healthcare

Stretchable strain sensors have the potential to significantly advance electronic healthcare (E-healthcare). However, current challenges, including a limited detection range, low sensitivity, aggregation of conductive nanoparticles, and the inherent rigidity of conductive polymers within hydrogel matrices, hinder their progress. In our study, we employed a dual approach: we tailored both physical and chemical bond densities and coupled them with conductive polymer nanoparticles. As a result, we developed a stretchable hydrogel strain sensor embedded with a quick response code. This innovation achieved an impressive detection range of up to 1500% and a high gauge factor of 16.6. By modifying the hydrogen bond strength and converting conductive polymer nanoparticles into linear polymer chains, we managed to enhance the sensor's stretchability to 2100%. Moreover, the incorporation of a quick response code enabled the sensor to simultaneously monitor in real-time and encode information. Thus, our sensor emerges as a robust contender for pioneering advancements in E-healthcare, potentially supporting intricate applications like rehabilitation progression tracking.