In the present study, a high-performance n-type temperature sensor was developed by a new and facile synthesis approach, which could apply to ambient temperature applications. As impacted by the low sintering temperature of flexible polyimide substrates, a screen printing technology-based method to prepare thermoelectric materials and a low-temperature heat treatment process applying to polymer substrates were proposed and achieved. By regulating the preparation parameters of the high-performance n-type indium oxide material, the optimal proportioning method and the post-treatment process method were developed. The sensors based on thermoelectric effects exhibited a sensitivity of 162.5 μV/°C, as well as a wide range of temperature measurement from ambient temperature to 223.6 °C. Furthermore, it is expected to conduct temperature monitoring in different scenarios through a sensor prepared in masks and mechanical hands, laying a foundation for the large-scale manufacturing and widespread application of flexible electronic skin and devices.
Keywords: indium oxide; screen printed; sensitivity; temperature sensor.