Stretchable Electronic Skin
Summary
The stretchable bioelectronics group at University of Cambridge is developing integrated circuits, or sensory circuits, which are placed onto a substrate that can be deformed, like a rubber band. One of the key materials they are working with is a clear elastic material – silicone rubber – that is very stretchable.
The potential application is in the communication industry. They are working on devices such as a mobile telephone that can be worn around the wrist. (In other words, “electronic skin” is a misnomer. The material does not replace skin; it merely conforms to the hand or wrist like a second skin.
Keywords: Dr Stéphanie Lacour, University of Cambridge Research Centre, electronic skin