An overview of healthcare monitoring by flexible electronics

Over the past two decades, a large number of microsensors and actuators have been integrated into all aspects of electronic devices. By achieving flexibility and stretchability, microelectronics can greatly expand current application scenarios. The main advantage of flexible electronics are the accommodation to complex surfaces, such as the human skin, which makes it possible to manufacture biosensors or wearable devices for human healthcare. According to Transparency Market Research, the global biosensors market was valued at $9.9 billion in 2011, and it is expected to reach as high as $18.9 billion by 2018.

The human body is a complex system in which any pathology can exhibit appropriate physiological signals. Physiological measurements and stimulation techniques require electronic devices that can conform to the curvilinear surfaces of biological tissues and accommodate their large deformations. Scholars at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Dalian University of Technology reviewed the recent advances in flexible and stretchable electronics that are currently used for electronic skins and biological devices in human healthcare. The materials, structures and functionalities of a variety of biological sensors were introduced. The discussions provide potential ideas for commercial applications. Some perspectives on future research opportunities have also been included.

"With an improved understanding of biosensors and the architectures of flexible and stretchable electronic devices, it will be possible to develop more functional and powerful integrated electronic systems," wrote the four researchers. "This will improve the public health by bringing about revolutionary changes in long-term health monitoring devices."

More information:
DOI: 10.1007/s11433-018-9239-9

Provided by Science China Press