Skin Electrodes Based on TPU Fiber Scaffolds with Conductive Nanocomposites with Stretchability, Breathability, and Washability

Abstract

In the context of an aging population and escalating work pressures, cardiovascular diseases pose increasing health risks. Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring presents a preventive tool, but conventional devices often compromise comfort. This study proposes an approach using Ag NW/TPU composites for flexible and breathable epidermal electronics. In this new structure, TPU fibers are used to support Ag NWs/TPU nanocomposites. The TPU fiber-reinforced Ag NW/TPU (TFRAT) nanocomposites exhibit excellent conductivity, stretchability, and electromechanical durability. The composite ensures high steam permeability, maintaining stable electrical performance after washing cycles. Employing this technology, a flexible ECG detection system is developed, augmented with a convolutional neural network (CNN) for automated signal analysis. The experimental results demonstrate the system’s reliability in capturing physiological signals. Additionally, a CNN model trained on ECG data achieves over 99% accuracy in diagnosing arrhythmias. This study presents TFRAT as a promising solution for wearable electronics, offering both comfort and functionality in long-term epidermal applications, with implications for healthcare and beyond.

Keywords

• electronic skin
• stretchable
• breathable
• electrospinning
• intelligent wearable devices