Dry Composite Electrodes with Carbon Nanotubes Additive for Biopotentials Measurements: ECG Use Case

Abstract

Long term monitoring of patients health condition is a useful diagnostic method however it still remains challenging to apply. Prolonged electrocardiographic monitoring and early diagnosis of arrhythmias enables the introduction of appropriate treatment prolonging life expectancy. Nevertheless the market demand is focused on wearable solutions which do not require to stick electrodes to skin. In this research we developed samples of material and evaluated them for suitability in electrophysiological measurements. Favorable conductive properties were achieved by polymer composite containing multi-walled carbon nanotubes and Ag nanoparticles. ECG signals were recorded in limb leads configuration using M-TRACE Electrocardiograph device. As a reference standard metal electrodes were used. The examination was conducted in two variants: with and without conductive gel. The signals were then compared and approved by a professional physician as fully diagnostable. Finally, the research revealed that, when comparing to reference electrodes, the signals recorded with designed electrodes in dry conditions featured 27% higher amplitude and 60% higher baseline noise whilst in wet conditions (when using conductivegel): 23% and 55% respectively. Finally the results showed that designed material features antimicrobial properties (against S. aureus, E. coli).