Flexible ultrathin resistive temperature sensors for glove-based assistive technology

The skin of the human hand plays a critical role in perceiving temperature, which is vital for safe interactions with the environment. This paper presents the fabrication and integration of flexible, ultrathin resistive-type temperature sensors within a reusable glove, designed for individuals with prosthetic hands or impaired temperature perception. The single-walled carbon nanotubes/ poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): poly(styrene sulfonate)(SWCNTs/PEDOT:PSS)-based sensors, fabricated on 1 µmthick polyimide substrates, demonstrate high sensitivity (~0.58% °C-1) and rapid response times of 1.8 ± 0.2 s, across a linear detection range of 25–65°C, enabling real-time temperature feedback for users. The sensor-equipped glove provides timely precautionary warnings, helping reduce potential thermal risks during daily activities involving thermal exposure.