In an upcoming Research News, Dae-Hyeong Kim and John Rogers describe recent developments in the emerging area of stretchable electronics. Strategies for the design and development of such systems, which have an elastic response to high levels of strain whilst retaining full electronic functionality, are discussed and examples of resultant devices are described. Focussing on the use of semiconductor nano-materials with unconventional structural arrangements, such as in open meshes or in concertina-style waves of nanowires or nanoribbons, the authors' work provides a solid foundation for the development of truly stretchable electronic devices. These devices have the potential for use in a range of applications, including wearable computers, biocompatible circuits and sensors for implantation, and large adaptable displays that could cover a wall or be bent around objects.
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