Dual-functional flexible pressure sensors enabled by MXene/Fe nanowires conductive networks

Flexible pressure sensors are integral to the advancement of next-generation wearable electronics, electronic skins, and human–machine interfaces. However, the concurrent realization of lightweight design, mechanical stability, and high sensitivity remains an ongoing challenge. Here, we present a high-performance flexible pressure sensor based on a polyurethane (PU) sponge integrated with Ti₃C₂Tₓ MXene nanosheets, iron nanowires (Fe NWs), and waterborne polyurethane (WPU). The 2D MXene provides superior electrical conductivity, while the 1D Fe NWs interconnect discontinuous regions within the porous structure, forming a robust three-dimensional conductive network. WPU facilitates uniform dispersion and strong interfacial bonding between the conductive fillers and the sponge matrix, thereby enhancing both mechanical integrity and sensing stability. The resulting sensor exhibits a high sensitivity of 6.9 kPa⁻¹ , a broad sensing range up to 15 kPa, rapid response and recovery times (97 ms and 66 ms, respectively), and excellent durability over 3000 mechanical cycles. In addition to reliable pressure detection, the device enables dual-functional capabilities, including real-time spatial pressure mapping using a 4 × 4 sensor array, localized Joule heating under mechanical stress, and accurate grip monitoring when integrated into wearable gloves. The sensor is fabricated via a cost-effective, scalable dip-coating method, offering practical advantages for industrial production. This work not only demonstrates a synergistic assembly strategy of 2D/1D nanomaterials within porous elastomeric frameworks but also paves the way for multifunctional, wearable sensing platforms capable of addressing real-world application demands in healthcare, robotics, and human–environment interaction.