Degradable Cross-Linked Collagen Fiber/MXene Composite Aerogels as a High-Performing Sensitive Pressure Sensor

Abstract

Degradable multifunctional pressure sensors have attracted considerable attention in recent years, owing to their unique sensing performance and potential in reducing electronic waste, for applications in monitoring human motion and medical detection and human–computer interactions. Herein, cross-linked collagen fibers (CCFs) and MXene are used to prepare CCF/MXene composite aerogels by blending-casting and freeze-drying. The CCF/MXene composite aerogel sensor exhibits a high sensitivity (61.99 kPa–1), quick response (0.30 s) and recovery (0.15 s) times, and a low detection limit (0.4 kPa), together with the desired thermal insulation and stability. In addition, the CCF/MXene composite aerogel can be degraded by soaking in an alkaline solution for 40 days, showing great degradability, which is attributing to the environmental friendliness in association with the use of natural fibers.