High-Sensitivity Microchannel-Structured Collagen Fiber-Based Sensors with Antibacterial and Hydrophobic Properties

Wearable sensors have become significant for collecting motion and health information. It is urgent to develop high-sensitivity sensors that can be used in various complex environments. Herein, we prepare an antibacterial and superhydrophobic 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (FAS)-cross-linked collagen fibers/MXene/Ag nanoparticles (FCMA) aerogel sensor. Benefiting from the microchannel structure of the FCMA aerogel, the sensor achieved high sensitivity (168.44 kPa–1) and fast response (0.2 s) and recovery (0.1 s). Meanwhile, the sensor can stably detect tiny physiological signals and large movements of human body. Importantly, owing to the low surface energy of FAS, the FCMA aerogel shows superhydrophobic and antifouling properties for application in damp or rainy conditions. The antiadhesion of superhydrophobic surface and the bactericidal effects of Ag nanoparticles make the sensor possess good antibacterial and antifungal activities, which can effectively prevent bacterial/fungi growth and protect human health. Therefore, the flexible and multifunctional FCMA aerogel sensor has versatile and promising applications in wide areas.