Stretchable electrodes on wrinkled elastomeric substrates

Abstract

Flexible sensors have emerged as key components in various applications, including wearable electronics, soft electronics, and structural health monitoring systems. However, there remain significant challenges, particularly in achieving high sensitivity and durability while maintaining flexibility. This report presents a few approaches to producing a good flexible sensor on wrinkled elastomeric substrates.

By deliberately introducing controlled wrinkles into the sensor, mechanical properties of flexible materials can be exploited to improve sensitivity and response characteristics. In this project, controlled experiments were conducted to investigate how at different percentages of stretching before putting on the conductive layer would affect the resistance of the flexible sensor after releasing which varies with deformation. By correlating changes in resistance with known levels of strain or stress, a relationship can be established which enables the sensor to accurately measure and quantify external stimuli, such as pressure or strain.

The different mechanical and electrical properties were obtained by stretching an elastomeric substrate, Ecoflex 00-10, at different lengths, placing the conductive layer, and releasing after. Thereafter, the results were characterized by doing a mechanical and electrical test as well as analysing optical microscopy images, in terms of properties such as surface roughness on the samples.

This report discusses the fabrication techniques and characterization methods involved in these approaches. Through strategic wrinkle engineering, it can be demonstrated that there is potential in unlocking new capabilities and applications for flexible sensors.