Flexible and multifunctional humidity sensor based on coral-like La2(WO4)3 for contactless healthcare monitoring

This research successfully produced lanthanum tungstate (La 2 (WO 4 ) 3 ) nanoparticles with a coral-like morphology through a hydrothermal synthesis approach, subsequently fabricating an innovative humidity detection device utilizing this nanostructured material. The crystalline phase structure and elemental composition of the material were systematically characterized by XRD and XPS, while its unique coral-like porous morphological features were revealed through SEM and TEM. The performance of the La 2 (WO 4 ) 3 moisture-sensitive element was tested in detail at room temperature (25 °C). Benefiting from the material's distinctive three-dimensional porous structure, the sensor has exceptional humidity detection capabilities, including a wide detection range (11–95 % RH), high response value (212.5), fast response/recovery time (16 s/263 s), and excellent detection resolution (as low as 1 % RH relative humidity change). The sensor also shows good long-term stability and reproducibility. Notably, it offers advantages such as a simple fabrication process and low cost, making it highly promising for applications in environmental monitoring, medical diagnosis, aerospace, and high-precision measurement fields. In addition to creating a moisture-sensitive material with superior performance, this research offers new insights for the creation of humidity sensors with superior performance.