Reduced graphene oxide-based stretchable strain sensor for monitoring of physical activities and minute movement

Abstract

Wearable electronics for the intelligent monitoring of human health and physical activities is the future technology. The traditional strain sensors are rigid; therefore, these are not suitable for integration on uneven surfaces like the human body and wearable textiles. In contrast, the flexible strain sensors have made it possible to detect various physical activities. Also, they have multiple applicability in human–machine interface, soft robotics, smart farming, smart textiles, and security. This work reported highly elastic, sensitive, and durable strain sensors fabricated using electrochemically synthesized reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and silicone-based sealant. The rGO has been characterized using an X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). The fabricated sensor exhibited 116% elasticity, a gauge factor of 4100, and cyclic performance of higher than 4550 cycles. The sensors have been utilized to monitor physical activities of such as running, walking, and head movements. Furthermore, the sensor has been used for the detection of disturbances in hazardous containers.