Journal: 

Science Advances 

Title:

 Gradient Mesh Enables Delayed Saturation of Flexible Pressure Sensors 

Research idea: 

This work designs a gradient mesh interlayer placed between the electrode and ionic hydrogel. The pore size of the mesh increases from the center outward. The contact area expands progressively under loading to prevent premature saturation of capacitance signals. Combined with ultrasonically processed liquid metal composite electrodes with micro-rough surfaces, the extent of local contact can be continuously modulated within contacted regions, synergistically broadening the effective response range of the sensor. 

Material development:

 (1) Materials: gradient mesh, ionic hydrogel, ultrasonically treated liquid metal composite electrode (2) Functions: The gradient mesh restricts lateral deformation of the hydrogel and sequentially regulates the participation of contact areas in sensing. The ionic hydrogel serves as the sensing medium. The liquid metal composite electrode forms a micro-rough surface to sustainably change the microscopic contact within contacted regions. The sensor maintains stable response over a wide pressure range and can distinguish weak pressure variations under high preload. It independently regulates the expansion of contact area and reserves sensing space for faint pressure signals under large loads.

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