Scientists from Penn State and Hebei University of Technology have created an advanced self-powered sensor that could change how doctors monitor wounds.
This new flexible sensor can accurately measure both temperature and physical strain at the same time, helping doctors track how well a wound is healing.
One of the biggest challenges in medical sensors is that different signals—like temperature changes and physical strain—can get mixed up, making it hard to measure them separately.
The research team solved this problem using laser-induced graphene (LIG), a unique material made from carbon.
Unlike traditional graphene, LIG is created by using a laser to “write” graphene patterns onto materials like plastic or wood.
This makes it easy to produce and use in electronics, including sensors and energy devices.
While LIG has been used in many applications before, the researchers discovered a new property that makes it perfect for wound monitoring: thermoelectricity.
Thermoelectric materials can convert temperature changes into electricity.
This property allows the sensor to measure both temperature and physical strain separately, which is crucial for tracking wound healing.
- Temperature changes can indicate inflammation or infection.
- Physical strain can show if the wound is healing properly or if it is being disturbed.
By combining these two measurements, doctors can get a clear and detailed picture of the healing process without needing painful or frequent check-ups.
This new smart sensor has several advantages:
✅ Highly Sensitive – It can detect temperature changes as small as 0.5°C.
✅ Soft and Stretchable – It can stretch up to 45% without breaking.
✅ Comfortable to Wear – It conforms to different shapes and surfaces, making it ideal for human skin.
✅ Self-Powered – It generates its own electricity from temperature differences, meaning it doesn’t need batteries.
“The porous structure of this material makes it highly responsive,” said Huanyu “Larry” Cheng, lead researcher at Penn State. “Unlike rigid materials, this sensor interacts smoothly with human skin, making it perfect for medical use.”
This breakthrough sensor could also be used in fire detection and other safety applications. Because it works without an external power source, it could monitor temperature changes in remote areas, alerting people to fires or other dangers.
The team is also working on a wireless system that would allow doctors and patients to track sensor data in real time using smartphones. This means doctors could monitor wounds remotely, reducing unnecessary hospital visits and improving patient care.
This self-powered graphene sensor could revolutionize health monitoring by making it easier, more comfortable, and pain-free.
With further development, it could be widely used in hospitals, homes, and emergency settings, helping doctors and patients stay ahead of potential problems.
