Strain-insensitive MXene-based wearable temperature patch with integrated thermoelectric cooling for continuous infant thermal monitoring and in-situ treatment

Continuous and accurate nighttime monitoring of infants’ body temperature is crucial for early fever detection and timely interventions, directly impacting their health. However, existing wearable temperature sensors are often sensitive to body movement-induced strain, causing inaccurate readings, and lack integrated active temperature regulation. Here, we developed a strain-insensitive wearable temperature patch that integrates a flexible MXene-based thermal sensor with a thermoelectric cooling module for continuous monitoring and in-situ cooling treatment. The thermal sensor employs an alternating laminated architecture with interfacial interlocking, incorporating PVA/CNF/MXene/Fe(II) composites, achieving a high strain insensitivity with a gauge factor of 0.5 and high thermosensitivity with a sensitivity of 1.78% °C−1, a resolution of 0.5 °C, and a rapid response time of 7 s within a 20–70 °C range. Upon fever detection, the cooling module can lower skin temperature by 2 °C. This wearable system provides a practical solution for infant thermal management, potentially enhancing health outcomes.