Nanomaterials for new and emerging physical sensing applications: a review of recent developments

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide details of recently reported work on the use of nanomaterials in sensors for physical variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, this paper first discusses research involving the use of a range of nanomaterials for strain sensing. It then considers the applications of these materials to sensors for pressure, force, touch and allied variables. It concludes with a brief discussion and 33 references.

Findings

This paper shows that nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, metallic nanoparticles and nanowires are being studied extensively in the physical-sensing context. All manner of sensors have been developed, based on a diversity of principles and technologies, and many offer excellent performance and unique capabilities, making them particularly well-suited to emerging applications such as wearable sensing devices.

Originality/value

This paper provides a detailed and timely review of the rapidly growing body of research into the use of nanomaterials for sensing physical quantities.

Citation

Bogue, R. (2015), "Nanomaterials for new and emerging physical sensing applications: a review of recent developments", Sensor Review, Vol. 35 No. 4, pp. 321-328. https://doi.org/10.1108/SR-04-2015-0057