Electrospinner: Bioinspired Ultrasensitive Flexible Strain Sensors for Real‑Time Wireless Detection of Liquid Leakage

Research content

The research team developed a biomimetic superhydrophobic thermoplastic polyurethane/carbon nanotube/graphene nanosheet flexible strain sensor (TCGS) for real-time wireless detection of liquid leaks.

Method

The TCGS sensor utilizes the synergistic effect of Archimedean spiral crack arrays and micropores. The design is inspired by the excellent perception ability of scorpions, achieving a sensitivity of 218.13 at 2% strain, an increase of 4300%, and showing excellent durability, capable of withstanding more than 5000 cycles of use.

Research innovation

Inspiration and sensor development: Inspired by the excellent perception ability of natural organisms (especially scorpions), a bio-inspired ultra-sensitive flexible strain sensor was developed.

TCGS design and manufacturing: The sensor uses micro-extrusion compression molding (μ-ECM) and surface modification technology, combining thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanosheets (GNS), which is cost-effective, easy to operate, and suitable for large-scale production.

Sensor performance and characteristics: TCGS has a super-hydrophobic conductive surface design, which significantly improves the efficiency and stability of detecting liquid leaks in humid environments. The synergistic effect of micropores and Archimedean spiral cracks is used to achieve high sensitivity and excellent durability.

Application and real-time detection

Integrating TCGS into leak detection equipment can wirelessly monitor liquid leaks of various sizes, speeds and compositions in real time. Leak detection equipment can cover the range from dripping to high-flow leaks and issue corresponding real-time alarms. The device can be widely used in pipeline networks to quickly respond to leaks, prevent resource losses, significantly reduce safety hazards, and promote sustainable development.

Connection between ultra-sensitive flexible strain sensors (TCGS) and electrospinning technology

Electrospinning technology can prepare nanofibers with specific functions, such as conductive fibers, sensor sensitive materials, etc., which can be directly used in the manufacture of sensors.

TCGS sensors utilize a combination of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanosheets (GNS), the preparation of which may involve electrospinning technology to form composite materials with specific structures and functions.

Electrospinning can mimic fiber structures in nature, such as spider silk, which are very important in bio-inspired design.

The design of the TCGS sensor is inspired by the sensory system of scorpions. This bio-inspired design may draw on the ability of electrospinning technology to mimic natural structures to improve the performance of the sensor.

Electrospinning Nanofibers Article Source:

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40820-024-01575-2