Electrically Stable Stretchable Conductors Based on Liquid Metals

Stretchable conductors are a class of electronics characterized by their significant deformability and have emerged as essential components for the next generation of electronic devices. However, significant conductivity reduction under stretching poses a limitation for their application across various fields. Liquid metals, as conductors possessing both high electrical conductivity and fluidity, provide an ideal solution to this challenge, facilitating the development of stretchable conductors with enhanced electrical stability. The present review, aiming at providing guidance and stimulating research enthusiasm for future research, delivers a comprehensive overview of the design, fabrication, and applications of liquid metal-based stretchable conductors (LMSCs). First, the prevalent fabrication methods for constructing LMSCs are presented, followed by a discussion on the key performances of LMSCs, wherein the principles vital for achieving high electrical stability are thoroughly discussed. Then, several representative applications of LMSCs are illustrated. Finally, this review makes a brief discussion on the current challenges and future development of LMSCs.