Monolithic Stretchable Functional Fibers With Structurally Tunable Percolation Networks for Seamlessly Integrated Wearable Electronics

초록

Fiber-shaped electronics are essential for unobtrusive wearable monitoring due to their seamless integration into textiles. However, achieving both high sensitivity and stable interconnectivity within a single, monolithic platform remains a significant challenge. Here, we present a facile and novel strategy to fabricate monolithic function-tunable fibers (FTFs) with spatially controlled electromechanical properties via a vertical encapsulation-induced densification mechanism. By engineering asymmetric AgNW percolation networks, we precisely tune the gauge factor (GF) within a single 1D architecture, creating highly sensitive strain sensors (SS, GF = 93.2 beyond 50% strain) and strain-insensitive conductive threads (CT, GF = 6.46). The SS detects deformations as small as 1%, while the CT maintains robust pathways even under 90% strain with an 8.9-fold reduction in sensitivity compared to the SS. The FTFs (SS-CT) exhibit exceptional durability, maintaining structural integrity and electrical continuity over 10 000 stretching cycles and 45 washing cycles. The practical utility has been demonstrated through an underwater strain-responsive light-emitting diode switch and a waterproof near-field communication antenna integrated into a junctionless, single-fiber platform. This monolithic approach eliminates the need for heterogeneous bonding agents, providing a promising pathway for durable, high-performance, and fiber-based wearable electronics.

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