journal article·2026-05Open access

Bioinspired Hierarchical Architecture with Water Transport Channels for Strong Adhesion at the Sweating Interface

Jieliang Zhao, Yu Xiang, Heng Wang, Huiqing Xu, Zhong Liu, Lulu Liang, Fengwen Jiang, Xuemei Chen, Wenzhong Wang, Chenqing Liu, Guodong Liu, Shaoze Yan, Xu Hou

Advanced Science· Volume 13· Issue 28

Abstract

ABSTRACT The persistent conflict between solid adhesion and liquid management fundamentally limits the reliability of epidermal electronics, as sweat accumulation disrupts interfacial integrity and sensor signal fidelity. This study presents a paradigm‐shifting strategy that physically decouples these requirements: a composite membrane patch with bioinspired hierarchical hydration architecture for sweat‐immune sensing. Inspired by the adhesive systems of tree frogs and bees and the fluid‐handling capabilities of bird beaks and pitcher plants, the architecture employs self‐regulating triphase liquid bridges to enhance adhesion. Hierarchical tapered microgrooves generate substantial Laplace pressure (>800 Pa) for directional liquid transport (up to 500 mm/s). This synergistic action maintains a dynamically balanced hydration environment at the skin interface, achieving a water vapor transmission rate 2.7‐fold higher than commercial patches. Consequently, it enables continuous monitoring of electrophysiological signals and sweat biomarkers, even during profuse sweating. This design principle offers a generalizable platform for developing robust, high‐performance epidermal devices.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Advanced Sensor and Energy Harvesting Materials · Surface Modification and Superhydrophobicity · Advanced Materials and Mechanics

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

School of Mechanical Engineering Beijing Institute of Technology Beijing P. R. China

Institute of Advanced Technology Beijing Institute of Technology Jinan P. R. China

College of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Chinese PLA General Hospital Beijing P. R. China

Department of Mechanical Engineering Tsinghua University Beijing P. R. China

Institute of Electrochemical Science and Engineering State Key Laboratory of Physical Chemistry of Solid Surfaces College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Xiamen University Xiamen P. R. China

Funding

National Natural Science Foundation of China · Beijing Nova Program · National Major Science and Technology Projects of China · Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province · Natural Science Foundation of Beijing Municipality

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