Polyurethane-Based Composites for Flexible Sensors: A Review.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Sensor Technology

Background:

• Flexible electronics are advancing rapidly, with applications in wearable sensors, bionic skin, and human-machine interaction.
• Current flexible sensors face increasing demands for sensitivity, stability, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness.
• Polyurethane composites possess tunable structures, flexibility, and biocompatibility, making them suitable for advanced sensor development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review synthesis strategies for polyurethane composites for flexible sensors.
• To analyze the role of various fillers in enhancing composite properties.
• To summarize research progress and future trends in polyurethane composite-based flexible sensors.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on polyurethane composite synthesis.
• Analysis of filler materials (carbon-based, polymers, metal nanoparticles/nanowires) and their impact.
• Summary of application-specific research in flexible sensing.

Main Results:

• Polyurethane composites can be tailored with functional materials to achieve desired properties like conductivity and self-healing.
• Fillers significantly enhance mechanical, electrical, and functional characteristics of polyurethane composites.
• Polyurethane composites show promise in eco-friendly sensing, motion/health monitoring, and bionic electronic skin.

Conclusions:

• Polyurethane composites are versatile materials for next-generation flexible sensors.
• Further research can optimize composite design for specific high-performance applications.
• This review provides insights for developing advanced flexible sensor technologies.