Liquid metal equipped reed stem for angle detection sensor

Abstract

BackgroundThe potential of integrating biological and metallic materials in a sensor presents considerable advantages and untapped prospects, particularly in monitoring domains. Ga-based liquid metal (LM), despite its superior conductivity and fluid mobility, has yet to be extensively researched, particularly in terms of its wettability on solid surfaces. MethodsThis study explores the behavior of LM when contained within a pipe of limited wettability and tilted, as it can flow without significant hysteresis. We propose to emulate the dynamic behavior of plants, particularly using natural hollow plant stems such as reeds, to serve as the pipe for the LM core, aiming for efficient angle sensing. Significant FindingsThe study demonstrates that this innovative design can accurately detect a 90-degree angle change within three seconds. These findings illustrate the considerable potential of integrating natural organics and metal alloys for sensing applications, especially in the agricultural sector.