E-Tattoos: Toward Functional but Imperceptible Interfacing with Human Skin
Hongbian Li, Philip Tan, Yifan Rao, Sarnab Bhattacharya, Zheliang Wang, Sangjun Kim, Susmita Gangopadhyay, Hongyang Shi, Matija Jankovic, Heeyong Huh, Zhengjie Li, Pukar Maharjan, Jonathan Wells, Hyoyoung Jeong, Yaoyao Jia, Nanshu LuChemical Reviews, Mar 11, 2024
The human body continuously emits physiological and psychological information from head to toe. Wearable electronics capable of noninvasively and accurately digitizing this information without compromising user comfort or mobility have the potential to revolutionize telemedicine, mobile health, and both human–machine or human–metaverse interactions. However, state-of-the-art wearable electronics face limitations regarding wearability and functionality due to the mechanical incompatibility between conventional rigid, planar electronics and soft, curvy human skin surfaces. E-Tattoos, a unique type of wearable electronics, are defined by their ultrathin and skin-soft characteristics, which enable noninvasive and comfortable lamination on human skin surfaces without causing obstruction or even mechanical perception. This review article offers an exhaustive exploration of e-tattoos, accounting for their materials, structures, manufacturing processes, properties, functionalities, applications, and remaining challenges. We begin by summarizing the properties of human skin and their effects on signal transmission across the e-tattoo-skin interface. Following this is a discussion of the materials, structural designs, manufacturing, and skin attachment processes of e-tattoos. We classify e-tattoo functionalities into electrical, mechanical, optical, thermal, and chemical sensing, as well as wound healing and other treatments. After discussing energy harvesting and storage capabilities, we outline strategies for the system integration of wireless e-tattoos. In the end, we offer personal perspectives on the remaining challenges and future opportunities in the field.