Synergistically Reinforced Bamboo Cellulose–Graphene Aerogel Sensors with Highly Elasticity and Strain Sensitivity

Cellulose-based aerogels are particularly attractive for flexible sensors because of their interconnected porous networks, low density, and excellent compressibility, which enable effective deformation sensing and signal transmission. However, the widespread adoption of cellulose aerogels in strain sensing applications has been hindered by their limited compressibility and fatigue resistance. To address these challenges, this study developed composite aerogel sensors through a synergistic approach combining bamboo cellulose nanofibers (BCNFs) prepared via the TEMPO oxidation method with methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) modification and graphene oxide (GO) incorporation. The resulting BCNF/MTMS/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) aerogel was fabricated through an integrated process of freeze-drying and carbonization. The as-prepared piezoresistive sensor features an elastic, conductive porous structure with outstanding sensing capabilities, demonstrating high compression sensitivity (gauge factor can reach 2.45 under 20–30% strain). Furthermore, the sensor exhibits excellent performance in monitoring human joint movements, showcasing its potential as a high-performance flexible wearable strain sensor for next-generation health monitoring applications. This work provides a viable strategy for developing advanced cellulose-based aerogel sensors with enhanced mechanical and sensing properties.