Plasticine plus graphene transforms into a highly sensitive sensor [Full Text]

Technology Dynamics Plasticine is very common in everyday life, but it usually only appears as a children's toy, and it will not be attractive to adults. Recently, researchers from the University of Dublin and the University of Manchester have made this toy into a highly sensitive sensor called G-putty. What makes ordinary elastic clay become G-putty? The answer is: graphene.

This thinnest and strongest known material is also extremely flexible. It consists of a combination of single-layer carbon atoms that conduct electricity very effectively. The researchers assembled thin sheets of graphene that were only 1 nanometer thick and inserted them into a resilient silicone polymer (plasticine).

Plasticine plus graphene transforms into a highly sensitive sensor

These graphene nanosheets produce a tiny network of charged conductors. Then, the scientist measured the resistance, that is, the ease with which the current passed through the conductor. They connected the G-putty to the electrodes and the computer. When the G-putty is placed against the carotid skin of a human, a soft pulse is enough to destroy the current flowing through the graphene and subsequently produce a resistance measurement. Related results were recently published in the journal Science.

In fact, G-putty is like a pressure sensor. Researchers can calibrate the technology so that it can be converted into a resistor for many measurements. The researchers said that G-putty can also be used to detect some very slight impact and deformation, and even a small spider on the crawl can also be detected.

The difference is that the sensitivity of this material is 250 times that of the cheapest metal sensor on the market. Researchers have begun to push for commercial applications because G-putty can easily replicate at low cost.

In addition, according to Professor Jonathan Coleman, chief research officer, G-putty can also be placed on the human body and used to measure major body indicators such as breathing, pulse and blood pressure. It is said that its sensitivity is several hundred times that of conventional sensors, which also has a broad application prospect in the medical field. Prof. Jonathan Coleman stated that wearable devices that monitor physical health are now getting more and more attention, and the highly sensitive nature of G-putty will make it very promising in this area. (Original title: Graphene + Plasticine Scientists Create Highly Sensitive Sensors)