Microbial biofilm-based hydrovoltaic pressure sensor with ultrahigh sensitivity for self-powered flexible electronics

Abstract

Developing the integration of self-powered detection with both dynamic and static forces is a significant challenge in promoting intelligent technology systems. Herein, we introduce an innovative microbial biofilm based-hydrovoltaic pressure sensor (mBio-HPS) using whole-cell Geobacter sulfurreducens, which successfully combines self-powered functionality and static pressure detection within a single device. The mBio-HPS exhibited a sensitivity of up to 8968.7 kPa⁻¹ (at 1 kPa) in the 0.4–25 kPa regime without external power supply. Moreover, the mBio-HPS demonstrated the fastest reported response speed to date, with a remarkable response time of 112.5 μs, enabling effective detection of both dynamic and static forces while maintaining stability during an extensive 30,000 s testing. Experimental validation using a sensor-integrated array showed its outstanding real-time detection capabilities for both dynamic and static pressure, highlighting its outstanding potential for electronic skin applications. This unprecedented concept of a hydrovoltaic pressure sensor also offers new insights into the development of high-performance self-powered electronics.