A biodegradable, soft, and conductive MXene-cellulose nanofiber paper electrode integrates Ti3C2Tx nanosheets into bamboo-derived scaffolds, with a porous Ecoflex coating that imparts waterproofing and breathability. The freestanding dry electrode enables high-fidelity EMG sensing, strain and pressure detection, and wireless control of a knee exoskeleton. Upon disposal, the material degrades oxidatively, offering a sustainable route toward scalable, eco-friendly human-machine interfaces.
Researchers at National Taiwan University have developed biodegradable paper electrodes that combine sustainability with high performance, offering a solution to the growing challenge of electronic waste. The study is published in Advanced Science.
These electrodes, made by embedding MXene nanosheets into bamboo-derived cellulose nanofibers, are lightweight, flexible, and inexpensive to produce at scale. A breathable Ecoflex coating provides waterproof protection while preserving durability under repeated use.
The strong bonding between MXene and cellulose ensures structural stability and efficient electron transport, enabling the electrodes to deliver sensitive responses to strain and motion.
Tests showed they can be applied in wearable sensors, muscle activity monitoring, and exoskeleton control, all with excellent stability and low noise.
”This innovation paves the way for green, scalable electronics designed for next-generation wearable and assistive technologies,” said Prof. Tzu-En Lin, the study’s corresponding author.
Prof. Tzu-En Lin's email address: [email protected]
The lab of Prof. Lin: https://sites.google.com/g.ntu.edu.tw/tel/research
Research topics include 1. sensors based on microelectrodes, 2. sensors based on nano-membranes, 3. sensors based on aerogels, 4. sensors based on semiconductors, 5. EMG sensor development, 6. scanning probe system based on soft microelectrode.
