Electronic tattoo
Epidermal electronic systems are circuitry designed to match the thickness, elasticity, and stiffness of human skin. These electronics are designed to be worn on the skin and use their sensors to collect and communicate data directly from the source. They are fixed to the skin using van der Waals forces alone.
Researchers at the University of Illinois were able to improve this area of flexible and wearable electronics. By optimizing the design of the silicon and gallium arsenide electronics, the team achieved a thickness of less than 7 nanometers. At this size, the material moves with the skin it is applied to and can be worn for up to 24 hours. Their electronics were also more durable than previous versions and multifunctional – now including LEDs and wireless power sources.
An application of the system is the detection of hydration levels, changes in cognitive state, and cardiovascular health through measuring temperature changes of the skin.
Contact: University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, IL, USA.
