8/12/2018
A metal carbide within a hydrogel composite senses, stretches and heals like human skin for use in medicine and robotics. Smart materials that flex, sense and stretch like skin could be used in many applications in which they interact with the human body. Possibilities range from biodegradable patches that help wounds heal to wearable electronics and touch-sensitive robotic devices. Researchers at KAUST have developed an electrically conductive “hydrogel” that takes stretchability, self-healing and strain sensitivity to new levels.