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Conductive Gel Improves Performance of EKGs Without Skin Abrasion
Challenge
Changes in electric potential and impedance of human skin can cause significant errors in biopotential measurements such as electrocardiograms (EKGs) and electroencephalograms (EEGs). To overcome this problem, light abrasion of the skin using fine sandpaper is generally recommended before attaching electrodes. This process can be uncomfortable for patients and adds to the preparation time for the procedure. Improving ionic transport between the electrode and the body could eliminate the need for preparatory skin abrasion. A medical device manufacturer came to Battelle looking for material solutions that would provide fast response and equivalent performance without the need for skin abrasion.
Solution
Battelle researchers started with a literature review in order to find the latest research on how the structure and chemical makeup of materials impact ionic transport. This information was used to develop a model for understanding how different variables impact the ability of materials to transport ions across the stratum corneum (the outer layer of skin). Because the final product would involve human contact, we narrowed down potential materials to those that have been generally recognized as safe (GRAS). Using these criteria, we developed a list of potential materials that are safe for human contact, provide rapid penetration of the skin and good electrical contact, and are able to maintain that contact for an extended period of time. After testing several variations, researchers developed a gel mixture that incorporates commercially available GRAS compounds already in common use in the cosmetics industry. The final formulation was optimized through several rounds of testing using human subjects.
Impact
The final gel mixture demonstrates high levels of performance for biopotential measurement without skin abrasion, equivalent or better than performance of traditional electrode gels applied after abrasion. It provides fast response and long-lasting connection, making it appropriate for hospital environments where monitoring devices must be attached for extended periods of time. The gel is easy and economical to manufacture using commonly available GRAS materials. It can be added to the surface of the electrode during manufacturing, allowing hospital technicians to simply peel and stick the electrode to exposed skin without preparatory abrasion. Battelle received a patent for the gel and is seeking a partner for IP licensing.
Cross-disciplinary scientific and engineering collaboration is essential for innovation. Our experts, called “Solvers” at Battelle, combine multiple advanced materials expertise like these with other applied sciences and engineering disciplines to deliver comprehensive client solutions.
Materials Chemistry
Our comprehensive solutions require cross-disciplinary scientific and engineering collaboration. Battelle Solvers combine biology disciplines like these with other applied sciences and engineering to deliver client success.
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Innovation requires multidisciplinary scientific and engineering collaboration. Our Solvers at Battelle combine multiple chemistry disciplines like these with other applied sciences and engineering expertise to deliver comprehensive client solutions.
Data science expertise is at the core of our multidisciplinary approach. Our experts, called “Solvers” at Battelle, combine data science disciplines like these with applied engineering and science to deliver comprehensive client solutions in government and industry.
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Real-world solutions require multidisciplinary scientific and engineering collaboration. Our experts, called “Solvers” at Battelle, combine multiple engineering disciplines like these with other applied sciences to deliver comprehensive client solutions.
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Genetic Engineering
Human Factors Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Medical Device Engineering
Modeling and Simulation
Systems Engineering
Andre LaFreniere
Vice President, Commercial Business Development and Sales, Battelle Health
At Battelle, solving tough challenges is what we do. Let us know how we can help you. Let’s connect.
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