Researchers create synthetic skin

It is thought that the device could be used in prosthetics, which would improve on current designs that are heavy, easily damaged and cause difficulty in sensing touch in the wearer.

The international team of researchers created a patch using semi-conducting polymers, which are similar to manmade plastic in that they are flexible and can be stretched.

The research was carried out over two years at Stanford University in California, USA and is published today in the journal Nature (Thursday 17 November).

Co-author Dr Bob C. Schroeder, who is now based at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL), assisted with the design and synthesis of the new semi-conducting polymer.

He commented: “Our research shows for the first time that it is possible to combine the electric properties of organic semiconductors with the stretchability and healing capabilities of skin.”

The prototype skin showed the ability to heal itself after being mechanically damaged. However, the healing is not yet autonomous and occurs only once the material has been exposed to heat or solvent vapour of chloroform.

The researchers are working on improving the design and are investigating whether alternative, less toxic solvents could spark the healing process.

The work could also have an implications for flexible displays like touch screens in smartphones and TVs.

Continuing his research at QMUL’s Materials Research Institute, Dr Schroeder is developing new materials to power diagnostic sensors using body heat for healthcare monitoring.

More information:

• ‘Intrinsically stretchable and healable semiconducting polymer for organic transistors’ by Z.Bao et al is published in the journal Nature.
• Find out more about studying Chemistry BSc at Queen Mary University of London.
• Read more about the work of QMUL’s Materials Research Institute.