Leaf-Stomata-Inspired 3D Suspended Ultrasensitive E-Skin for Dual-Modal Tactile and Nociceptive Sensing in Robotics.

Wang, Wen-Ze; Yang, Qi-Rui; Sui, Mengli; Liu, Huixian; Shi, Ning; Li, Xin-Lin; Liu, Xin; Zhu, Jian et al. · Nano Lett · 2026

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Artificial sensory systems with synergistic tactile and nociceptive perception are essential for advanced human-robot interaction and environmental monitoring. However, developing scalable, tunable electronic skin (e-skin) that combines ultrasensitive tactile and nociceptive sensing remains challenging. Here, inspired by leaf stomata, we present a suspended biomimetic e-skin enabling 3D deformation-mechanical contact interactions for adjustable sensing. By integrating Langmuir-Blodgett assembly with a mechanical strategy, we achieve large-scale, precise alignment of metal nanowires and controlled crack formation, resulting in ultrahigh sensitivity (205.08 kPa<sup>-1</sup>) and excellent cyclic stability (120 000 cycles). Leveraging its dual-modal sensing mechanism, the e-skin is incorporated into a robotic tactile system, enabling non-destructive grasping of soft objects and real-time avoidance of sharp objects under closed-loop control. This simple, scalable approach provides a versatile platform for ultrasensitive, adaptive e-skin, advancing robotic tactile and nociceptive perception and promoting intelligent human-robot interaction.