Dual-Mode Temperature–Pressure MXene Sensor for Enhanced Firefighter Safety and Deep Learning-Enhanced Smart Gloves

Abstract

Dual-mode sensors capable of detecting multiple physical stimuli simultaneously offer significant advantages for advanced applications in human-machine interaction, robotics, and healthcare. However, the flammability of conventional materials limits their widespread adoption. The recently developed two-dimensional transition metal carbide (MXene) combines exceptional thermoelectric properties, metallic-like conductivity, and flame retardancy, making it a promising solution to these limitations. In this study, we present multifunctional sensors designed to accurately detect temperature and pressure stimuli by integrating MXene sheets onto flexible, fire-resistant polyimide (PI) substrates. These sensors demonstrate excellent performance in both temperature and pressure sensing, making them ideal for smart firefighting suits, which can monitor firefighters' health in real time. Moreover, when integrated with deep-learning algorithms, the sensors, assembled into smart gloves, can recognize objects of varying weights and temperatures. This work provides a simple and effective method for preparing multifunctional wearable sensors capable of distinguishing multiple stimuli across diverse environments.