Stretchable Artificial Synapses and Displays for Next-Generation Wearable Electronics

Wearable electronics made from stretchable materials can seamlessly conform to the complex surface of human skin, enabling advanced systems for signal detection, processing, and visualization. In this study, we introduce artificial synapses using single strands of semiconductor nanowires that mimic the structure and function of nerve fibers, precisely emulating the diverse synaptic plasticity of biological synapses. These artificial synapses have applications not only in neuromorphic computing, a key area in neuromorphic electronics, but also in neuromorphic robotics and bioelectronics—novel fields that remain largely unexplored. Our recent work demonstrated the potential for wearable, low-power neurorehabilitation tools, enabling coordinated bipedal locomotion in anesthetized mouse limbs, including actions like 'kicking a ball' and 'walking/running.' Additionally, to advance the development of highly efficient stretchable displays, we integrated 2D materials, such as graphene and MXene, onto one-dimensional silver nanowire percolation networks. The 2D layers effectively tailored the work function and enhanced charge distribution. This breakthrough enabled the creation of intrinsically stretchable organic light-emitting diodes with a remarkable efficiency of 20.3 cd/A. To further improve electrode solution processability, we developed an environmentally stable MXene conductive electrode with outstanding conductivity and a work function of 5.84 eV. Our research into stretchable neuromorphic devices and displays offers a promising technological foundation for the next generation of wearable electronics.