Body-conformable light-emitting materials and devices

Body-conformable light-emitting devices have generated considerable interest because of their widespread potential applications in aerospace, medicine and electronics. These devices, which are flexible, stretchable and soft, can integrate seamlessly and inconspicuously with the human body for tasks such as real-time monitoring, display of information, biosensing, optogenetic stimulation and medical therapy. At present, designs can be roughly divided into three different types: wearable light-emitting textiles, attachable light-emitting skins and implantable light-emitting biodevices. Here we evaluate recent advances in all three areas, discussing the materials design, device engineering strategies and diverse applications of these devices. The outstanding challenges and issues that need to be resolved before achieving widespread adoption and improved capabilities are highlighted.