TITLE: Soft, Wearable Systems with Integrated Microfluidics and Biosensors for Remote Health Monitoring
ABSTRACT: Soft bio-electronics and microfluidics, enabled by recent advances in materials science and mechanics, can be designed with physical properties that approach the mechanical properties of human skin. These systems are referred to as epidermal electronics and epifluidics by virtue of their stretchable form factors and soft mechanics compared to conventional packaged electronics and sensors. Here, we present an overview of recent advances in novel materials, mechanics, and designs for emerging classes of fully-integrated epidermal electronics and soft microfluidic systems. These devices incorporate arrays of sensors, microfluidic channels and biochemical assays, configured in ultrathin, stretchable formats for continuous monitoring of electro-chemical signals and biophysical metrics. Quantitative analyses of strain distribution and circuit performances under mechanical stress highlight the utility of these wearable systems in clinical and home environments. We will conclude with representative examples of these wearable systems, which have entered the commercialization phase of deployment.
