Biodegradable electrodes as a platform for sustainable on-skin electrophysiology – Bio-Electro

Non-invasive recording of the electrical activity of different body parts represents a fundamental technology in clinical diagnostics. This technology makes use of electrodes that are in contact with skin. However, the state-of-the art electrodes show inherent drawbacks associated with current materials and technology, i.e. skin irritation, low signal quality, high electrode-skin impedance, plus big amounts of electronic waste. The electrode market is currently expanding, resulting in thousands of tons of annual electronic waste.
The Bio-Electro project aims to develop fully biodegradable electrodes for sustainable electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings. From an electrochemical point of view, the requirement of an efficient ion-to-electron transduction will be considered in all phases of the project. By utilizing nanocelluloses and biodegradable conductive inks, the green ECG-electrodes will be flexible, conformable, wearable, breathable, biocompatible and fully biodegradable. Reduction of electronic waste with great benefits to the environment, society, and clinical users are expected. Monitoring of electrical activity from the eye (EOG), brain (EEG) or muscles (EMG) are other possible applications.