Researchers from Hanyang University in South Korea have brought the future of flexible and stretchable electronics a step closer to reality. (Image courtesy of Professor Jung Yei-Hwan)
SEOUL, May 24 (Korea Bizwire) – In a groundbreaking achievement, researchers from Hanyang University in South Korea have brought the future of flexible and stretchable electronics a step closer to reality.
Professors Jung Yei-Hwan and Yoo Hyoungsuk have successfully developed the world’s first “electronic skin” capable of maintaining wireless communication performance even when stretched or deformed like rubber.
The Ministry of Science and ICT announced on May 23 that the joint research team led by professors Jung and Yu has created a substrate that maintains its wireless communication performance regardless of being stretched or compressed.
This breakthrough was achieved by incorporating ceramic nanoparticles into a stretchable, rubber-like material and utilizing a process where the nanoparticles self-assemble into clusters. This research outcome represents a world first that has not been reported in academia until now.
Building upon this innovation, the research team has also developed an electronic skin capable of wireless communication over distances exceeding 90 meters, a feat previously unattainable.
Electronic skin refers to flexible electronic devices that can be attached to the human body, enabling the measurement of biometric signals.
Until now, even slight stretching or bending of wireless frequency circuits would result in communication disruptions or a drastic reduction in power transmission and reception efficiency.
This groundbreaking research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT’s basic research program and published in the prestigious international journal Nature on May 23. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
The researchers stated that their newly developed electronic skin can accurately measure various biometric signals from the body, such as brainwaves, body movements, skin temperature, and muscle signals, through long-range wireless communication.
The potential applications of this stretchable wireless technology are vast. In addition to wearable devices, the research team anticipates its use in stretchable displays, implantable biomedical devices, and electronic textiles (e-textiles).
“The stretchable wearable wireless communication technology we have developed can be applied to various stretchable systems that require wireless functionality,” said Jung.
He added, “We have already begun developing stretchable wireless wearable devices incorporating 6G mobile communication capabilities, the next generation of communication technology.”
Jung further explained, “We have filed multiple patent applications, and once all aspects are resolved, we plan to actively pursue technology transfer and commercialization.”
This groundbreaking research was supported by the Ministry of Science and ICT’s basic research program and published in the prestigious international journal Nature on May 23.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
