In the week that Elon Musk’s first Neuralink chip has been implanted into the human brain, Texas A&M researchers have also gotten in on the cybernetics action, with 3D printing.
Featuring more than 1,000 nerve endings, human skin is incredibly complex, but with the help of a specially-formulated hydrogel, the team has now come close to replicating it. In particular, they say their biomaterial features a low viscosity and tunable thermal and bioelectrical sensing capabilities, which could make it ideal for creating ultra-flexible electronics.
According to the scientists, their project was inspired by a desire to develop “more advanced and versatile interfaces between technology, the body and the environment.” In future, they anticipate their approach having broad applications, ranging from prosthetics to robotics, sports, security, and entertainment.
Sounds like the research creates plenty of next-gen wearable opportunities that wouldn’t even require you to install Elon Musk’s technology inside your head! You can find out more about the Texas A&M 3D printed e-skin project here.
