Recent Advances in Flexible Capacitive Fabric Pressure Sensors: Mechanisms, Materials, and Applications

Abstract Flexible capacitive fabric pressure sensors, owing to their natural compatibility with textile substrates, high sensitivity, and low power consumption, have emerged as pivotal components in constructing smart textiles. However, achieving concurrently low cost, high performance, and broad applicability remains a persistent challenge for their future development. Key research directions include the development of novel sensing mechanisms, integration of advanced functional nanomaterials, and innovative fabrication processes for flexible devices. This review summarizes recent advancements in flexible capacitive fabric pressure sensors. Beginning with the sensing mechanism, it systematically examines the material selection for electrode and dielectric layers, as well as fabrication techniques. Finally, future application prospects are discussed.