Biomimetic fiber of PVDF@Ag enabling the multimodal sensing for biomechanics and biomolecules integrated by textile carrier

Intelligent wearables with integrated biomechanics and biomolecule multimodal sensing systems are crucial for personalized healthcare. However, the modes of action of biomechanics and biomolecule sensing work in different ways. Hence, a method for manufacturing biomimetic fibers made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)@silver (Ag) is initially devised, and a textile carrier serves as a link for multimodal sensing of biomechanics and biomolecules. PVDF nanofiber membranes are created using a one-step electrospinning process. Next, by lowering the silver ion’s reduction potential, compact and homogenous Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are formed in-situ on the high-curvature PVDF fibers. Consequently, a PVDF@Ag fiber membrane with a piezoelectric response and a localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect is created, making it suitable for wearable sensors that can detect secreta molecules as well as muscle movements. PVDF@Ag fiber is twisted, taking inspiration from the spiral structure of butterfly antennae. Compared to untwisted, twisted PVDF@Ag fiber, this produces a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) output signal that is more stable and can resist for signal attenuation caused by tensile deformation during wearable sensing. The “fingerprint” spectra of SERS enable noninvasive extraction and detection of secretion signals at sweat and respiration. Additionally, a plausible correlation between the range of secretions produced and health-related data is examined. Additionally, the integrated PVDF@Ag by polyester fabric exhibits superior air permeability, moisture absorption, and antimicrobial properties. And, this multimodal sensing mechanism has an algorithm implanted with deep learning support. All things considered, the PVDF@Ag fiber functions as a bridge between biomolecules and biomechanics, which is essential for applications involving wearable healthcare management.