From materials to structures: A holistic examination of achieving linearity in flexible pressure sensors

Abstract As a pivotal category in the realm of wearable electronics, flexible pressure sensors have become a focal point due to their diverse applications such as human-machine interfaces and health monitoring. To cater for these applications, novel material design and fabrication strategies have been devised as to enhance the device performance by manipulating mechanical and electrical properties. This work primarily reviews the development of flexible pressure sensors during recent years with a focus on sensitive materials and related applications. First, an overview of the fundamental working mechanisms for various sensors was elucidated. Then, the influence of distinct surface microstructures or internal microstructures on the linearity of flexible sensors was explored. Following this, we delve into diverse applications of linear flexible pressure sensors, spanning from robotics, safety, electronic skin, to health monitoring. Finally, the existing constraints and future research prospects are outlined to pave the way for the further development of high-performance flexible pressure sensors.