New multi-sensor smart skin created using common objects

Scientists have been able to create an innovative multi-sensor smart skin using items commonly found in a typical household.

The team from the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology has developed a flexible paper-based skin using inexpensive off-the-shelf items such as aluminium foil, sellotape, napkins, sponges and pencil lines.

Layered on a post-it note, the skin harnesses the porosity, adsorption and dimensions of these materials to create a fully functioning distributed sensor network platform that can detect changes in pressure, temperature, humidity, proximity, pH and air flow.

It is made of recyclable materials, meaning it can deliver a wide range of functions a cheap and environmentally-friendly way.

Professor Muhammad Mustafa Hussain, senior author of the paper, said: "This is the first time a singular platform has shown multi-sensory functionalities close to that of natural skin. Additionally, they are being read or monitored simultaneously, like our own skin."

Previous efforts have utilised advanced, expensive materials or processes, but few have worked as effectively as this new low-cost option.