Researchers from RMIT University have developed a breakthrough in heart monitoring technology with the creation of ultrathin, waterproof, gel-free ECG electrodes. These electrodes offer increased comfort and minimize skin irritation, while still accurately measuring the heart’s electrical activity.
Monitoring the heart’s electrical activity over time is essential for diagnosing abnormal heart rhythms, heart attacks, and angina. However, current ECG devices on the market require the use of cold and slimy gel-coated electrodes, which can be uncomfortable and lead to skin irritation.
The RMIT University team has designed wearable ultrathin, lightweight, gel-free ECG electrodes that provide continuous heart monitoring without the disadvantages associated with wet electrodes. Unlike bulky and heavy commercial devices that utilize 12 wet electrodes, this new invention can fit in the palm of your hand.
The researchers incorporated gold into their dry electrode design due to its chemical inertness, high conductivity, and biocompatibility. By using thin gold films, they were able to create lightweight electrodes with a large surface area-to-volume ratio, optimizing the acquisition of ECG signals. After experimenting with various shapes, they settled on a hexagonal design that adheres well to the contours of the skin and captures ECG signals more accurately.
Weighing in at only 10 grams (0.3 oz), these electrodes are significantly lighter than traditional wearable ECG monitors that usually weigh a few hundred grams. While a standard ECG requires 12 electrodes, the RMIT team discovered that just three of their nano-thin electrodes are sufficient for effective heart monitoring. In terms of precision, the dry electrodes offer a performance similar to that of a traditional 12-lead ECG.
The ultra-thin electrodes, less than one-tenth the width of a human hair, are highly sensitive to the user’s cardiac signals. They are wireless and connect to an ECG machine via Bluetooth. Additionally, the hydrophobic nature of these electrodes allows them to remain dry, enabling users to wear the device while engaging in water activities like swimming and showering.
The potential applications for these wearable dry electrodes are extensive. They can be utilized in remote healthcare and ambulatory care settings, serving as a preventive medical device. Furthermore, they have the potential to be integrated into wearable fabrics for long-term cardiac monitoring.
In addition to their size and comfort advantages, these unique electrodes can be placed on unconventional areas of the body, such as the back of the neck. This feature is particularly useful for patients in the aged care sector, including those with dementia who may attempt to remove the device from their chest.
The researchers behind this breakthrough envision a future where their waterproof, gel-free ECG electrodes revolutionize heart monitoring in various healthcare settings. With their advanced technology, patients can experience greater comfort, reduced skin irritation, and enhanced precision in heart monitoring.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
