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Flexible and Stretchable 3ω Sensors for Thermal Characterization of Human Skin
Author(s) -
Tian Limei,
Li Yuhang,
Webb Richard Chad,
Krishnan Siddharth,
Bian Zuguang,
Song Jizhou,
Ning Xin,
Crawford Kaitlyn,
Kurniawan Jonas,
Bonifas Andrew,
Ma Jun,
Liu Yuhao,
Xie Xu,
Chen Jin,
Liu Yuting,
Shi Zhan,
Wu Tianqi,
Ning Rui,
Li Daizhen,
Sinha Sanjiv,
Cahill David G.,
Huang Yonggang,
Rogers John A.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
advanced functional materials
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 6.069
H-Index - 322
eISSN - 1616-3028
pISSN - 1616-301X
DOI - 10.1002/adfm.201701282
Subject(s) - characterization (materials science) , thermal diffusivity , materials science , nanotechnology , soft materials , thermal , thermal conductivity , relevance (law) , measure (data warehouse) , biomedical engineering , mechanical engineering , computer science , systems engineering , data mining , composite material , engineering , physics , quantum mechanics , meteorology , political science , law
Characterization of the thermal properties of the surface and subsurface structures of the skin can reveal the degree of hydration, the rate of blood flow in near‐surface micro‐ and macrovasculature, and other important physiological information of relevance to dermatological and overall health status. Here, a soft, stretchable thermal sensor, based on the so‐called three omega (i.e., 3ω) method, is introduced for accurate characterization of the thermal conductivity and diffusivity of materials systems, such as the skin, which can be challenging to measure using established techniques. Experiments on skin at different body locations and under different physical states demonstrate the possibilities. Systematic studies establish the underlying principles of operation in these unusual systems, thereby allowing rational design and use, through combined investigations based on analytical modeling, experimental measurements, and finite element analysis. The findings create broad opportunities for 3ω methods in biology, with utility ranging from the integration with surgical tools or implantable devices to noninvasive uses in clinical diagnostics and therapeutics.