A water-resistant, ultrathin, conformable organic photodetector for vital sign monitoring | Science Advances

Ultrathin flexible photodetectors can be conformably integrated with the human body, offering promising advancements for emerging skin-interfaced sensors. However, the susceptibility to degradation in ambient and particularly in aqueous environments hinders their practical application. Here, we report a 3.2-micrometer-thick water-resistant organic photodetector capable of reliably monitoring vital sign while submerged underwater. Embedding the organic photoactive layer in an adhesive elastomer matrix induces multidimensional hybrid phase separation, enabling high adhesiveness of the photoactive layer on both the top and bottom surfaces with maintained charge transport. This improves the water-immersion stability of the photoactive layer and ensures the robust sealing of interfaces within the device, notably suppressing fluid ingression in aqueous environments. Consequently, our fabricated ultrathin organic photodetector demonstrates stability in deionized water or cell nutrient media over extended periods, high detectivity, and resilience to cyclic mechanical deformation. We also showcase its potential for vital sign monitoring while submerged underwater.