Figure 2. Self-adaptive conformability of THIN for imperceptible tissue integration (IMAGE)
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The IBS Center for Neuroscience Imaging has demonstrated that THIN can stretch under hydration without cracking, conform to tissue surfaces with micron-scale curvature radii, and adhere tightly to microstructured surfaces via mussel-inspired interfacial chemistry. Upon exposure to bodily fluids, THIN asymmetrically swells, leading to a reduction in contact area and an upward shift of the center of mass as the nanomembrane curls. This swelling-induced transformation enables spontaneous and rapid self-adhesion to curved tissue surfaces. The same mechanism ensures stable and robust conformal contact even under dynamic cardiac motion. Unlike devices with elastomeric substrates, THIN exhibits ultralow mechanical stiffness and deforms together with the tissue, enabling long-term, durable integration.
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