Iontronics
Iontronics is a branch of electronics centered around the utilization of ions, charged atoms or molecules, for electronic processes. Unlike conventional electronics that rely on the movement of electrons through materials, iontronics harnesses the movement of ions to achieve diverse electronic functions. By capitalizing on the unique properties of ionic materials, iontronics enables the creation of innovative electronic devices exhibiting notable stretchability, transparency, biocompatibility, and so on. This field extends its influence into research field of soft robotics, energy harvesting, biomedical applications, etc. It explores immense potential to play a pivotal role in realizing a seamless human-machine interface.
Tribotronics
The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is an energy-harvesting device converting mechanical energy into electrical energy based on coupling effect of contact electrification and electrostatic induction. It consists of two materials with distinct triboelectric properties that are brought into contact and then separated, creating an electric potential difference between them. TENGs have a wide range of applications beyond just energy harvesting such as self-powered sensing, power sourcing for actuating, healthcare, and so on. The versatility of TENGs makes them a promising technology with the potential to revolutionize various industries by providing sustainable and efficient energy solutions for a wide range of applications.
Soft materials
Soft materials is a class of materials exhibiting deformability, stretchability, and adaptability under the influence of external forces. These materials have properties that allow them to undergo significant changes in shape, size, or mechanical properties without experiencing permanent deformation or damage. Soft materials encompass a wide range of substances, including hydrogels, organogels, ionogels, foams, elastomers, and certain biological tissues. They are utilized in various applications where their ability to conform to different shapes and undergo reversible deformations is advantageous. Soft materials have found applications in research fields such as soft robotics, wearable devices, biomedical implants, flexible electronics, and more, due to their ability to provide comfort, adaptability, and functionality in diverse contexts.
Micro/nano biointerface