Materials Strategies to Fabricate Metal-Like Stretchable Nanocomposites Using Locally-Bundled Nanowires for Wearable Devices

Stretchable conductive nanocomposites are a key focus in the field of wearable bioelectronics. Achieving a balance between metal-like conductivity (over 100,000 S/cm) and significant stretchability (more than 100%) for advanced skin-compatible devices remains a formidable task. This paper introduces a method for creating such a nanocomposite, employing locally clustered silver nanowires, which are stabilized using a combination of 1-propanethiols and 1-decanethiols. The process involves solidifying the nanocomposite through solvent evaporation in a highly humid environment, which clusters and stabilizes the nanowires within the organic solution. This local bundling reduces contact resistance and preserves the percolation network, enhancing conductivity. The use of both 1-propanethiol and 1-decanethiol further enhances this effect. Consequently, a nanocomposite is produced with exceptional conductivity (approximately 122,120 S/cm) and stretchability (around 200%). These outstanding electrical and mechanical properties are vital for various skin-like electronic applications. The paper showcases the application of this material in a wearable thermo-stimulation device.