Jellyfish-Inspired Electronic Skin Self-Heals in Wet & Dry Conditions

Inspired by jellyfish, researchers from the National University of Singapore  have created transparent "electronic skin" that is stretchable, touch-sensitive, and self-healing in both aquatic and dry environments. The researchers created a gel made of a fluorocarbon-based polymer and a fluorine-rich ionic liquid. When combined, the polymer interacts with the ionic liquid via highly reversible ion–dipole interactions, allowing it to self-heal. The electronic skin is created by 3D-printing the novel material into electronic circuits. As a soft and stretchable material, its electrical properties change when touched or strained.