Flexible human-machine interface touch system based on double-network solid-state ionic conductive elastomers

Recent trends have seen the adoption of soft gel-based ionic conductors in the development of touch pads to enhance flexibility. Yet, these gel-based systems are hampered by intrinsic limitations like dehydration and ion/organic reagent leakage. Here, we report a flexible touch system, ingeniously combining a surface-capacitive system with solid-state ionic conductive elastomers. Combination of salt-in-polymer and double-network structure strategies effectively addresses the longstanding trade-off between mechanical robustness and ionic conductivity. This flexible touch system supports a range of applications, from singular “point” interactions (flexible touch buttons) to “line” applications (stepless sound control and page turning) and finally, “surface” functionalities (game control and handwriting recognition). This research contributes significant insights to the advancement of next-generation human interfaces and IoTs.