The Potential of Electrospinning to Enable the Realization of Energy-Autonomous Wearable Sensing Systems

ACS Nano. 2024 Jan 30;18(4):2649-2684. doi: 10.1021/acsnano.3c09077. Epub 2024 Jan 17.

Abstract

The market for wearable electronic devices is experiencing significant growth and increasing potential for the future. Researchers worldwide are actively working to improve these devices, particularly in developing wearable electronics with balanced functionality and wearability for commercialization. Electrospinning, a technology that creates nano/microfiber-based membranes with high surface area, porosity, and favorable mechanical properties for human in vitro and in vivo applications using a broad range of materials, is proving to be a promising approach. Wearable electronic devices can use mechanical, thermal, evaporative and solar energy harvesting technologies to generate power for future energy needs, providing more options than traditional sources. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of how electrospinning technology can be used in energy-autonomous wearable wireless sensing systems. It provides an overview of the electrospinning technology, fundamental mechanisms, and applications in energy scavenging, human physiological signal sensing, energy storage, and antenna for data transmission. The review discusses combining wearable electronic technology and textile engineering to create superior wearable devices and increase future collaboration opportunities. Additionally, the challenges related to conducting appropriate testing for market-ready products using these devices are also discussed.

Keywords: Electrospinning; Energy Harvesting; Nano Fabrication; Self-Powered Sensing; Textile Engineering; Wearable Electronics; Wearable Energy Storage; Wireless Communication.

Publication types

  • Review