This new smart 'paper skin' may transform robotics

Scientists have developed a flexible, paper-based artificial skin, using items found in a typical household, that is capable of sensing pressure, temperature, humidity, proximity, pH and air flow.

The multi-sensor artificial skin can respond to external stimuli and could have important applications in medicine and robotics, researchers said. The paper-based skin is layered onto a post-it note, with paper, aluminium foil, lint-free wipes, and pencil lines acting as sensing components.

Made of recyclable materials, this paper skin presents a large number of sensory functions in a cheap and environmentally friendly way. "Democratisation of electronics will be key in the future for its continued growth," said Professor Muhammad Mustafa Hussain from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.

"In that regard, a skin-type sensory platform made with recyclable materials only demonstrates the power of human imagination," said Hussain, senior author of the research. "This is the first time a singular platform shows multi-sensory functionalities close to that of natural skin.

Additionally, they are being read or monitored simultaneously like our own skin," Hussain added.

The study was published in the journal Advanced Materials Technologies.