A stretchable, self-healing and illuminating material formulated at the National University of Singapore could be deployed for a range of uses including autonomous robotics, space exploration and search and rescue.
Unlike available stretchable optoelectronic materials that require high voltage and high frequencies to achieve visible brightness, the healable, low-field illuminating optoelectronic stretchable (HELIOS) device functions at relatively low operating voltages. The transparent, high permittivity polymeric dielectric material turns on at an 
The researchers display a sample of the novel electronic material. Source: National University of Singaporealternating voltage of 23 V and a frequency below 1 kHz, safe operating conditions for human-machine interactions.
HELIOS is an elastic rubber sheet made up of a blend of fluoroelastomer and surfactant. High dielectric permittivity enables storage of more electronic charges at lower voltages, enabling a higher brightness when used in a light-emitting capacitor device. Devices incorporating HELIOS have been demonstrated to achieve a brightness of 1,460 candela per square meter at 2.5 V/µm with stable illumination demonstrated up to a maximum of 800% strain.
As the material also self-heals mechanically and electronically from punctures or when severed, it can be used to fabricate long-lasting, damage-proof wireless displays. Applications as an illuminating electronic skin for autonomous soft robots and in specialty packaging, safety lights and wearable devices are also envisioned by the researchers.
