Optimization strategies for an electrospinning-based wearable strain sensor: from materials to structure

Abstract

Electrospinning-based strain sensors capable of detecting physiological activities have found extensive applications in wearable technologies. Although significant research efforts have been devoted to electrospinning-based sensors in recent years, systematic reviews elucidating the specific correlations between sensor performance optimization and material selection and structural design remain scarce. To address this gap, this article systematically reviews recent advancements in electrospinning-based wearable strain sensors, with a focused discussion on optimization strategies for key sensing performance metrics. Beginning with a historical overview of electrospinning technology, the evolution and critical processing parameters of electrospinning fibers are introduced, followed by a classification framework for strain sensors. The study focuses on strategies and underlying mechanisms for optimizing the performance of strain sensors by leveraging the material and structural design flexibility offered by electrospinning technology. Furthermore, emerging applications in wearable devices, healthcare monitoring, and human–machine interfaces are critically analyzed. Finally, current challenges and future development trends in this field are discussed. This review aims to provide both practical and theoretical references for the rational design and fabrication of high-performance electrospinning-based wearable strain sensors.