Scientists have developed a breakthrough technology: temporary electronic tattoos (or e-tattoos) that can be printed directly onto the scalp to measure brain activity.
This innovation was developed at the University of Texas at Austin. It offers a faster, more comfortable alternative to traditional electroencephalography (EEG) while also opening new possibilities for non-invasive brain-computer interfaces.
The Challenges of Traditional EEG
EEG is widely used to monitor brain activity and diagnose neurological conditions such as epilepsy and stroke. However, the process is labor-intensive and uncomfortable:
Electrodes must be carefully positioned based on individual skull shapes.
The conductive gel used dries out within hours, requiring reapplication and frequent monitoring.
Patients must endure long sessions tethered to bulky machines with wires.
E-Tattoos
As reported by WP Tech, e-tattoos eliminate the need for conventional electrodes, wires, and gels.
Instead, they use a special conductive ink printed directly onto the scalp. These tattoos act as thin-film sensors that measure brain activity in real time.
The e-tattoos, just 30 micrometers thick, are easily removable with alcohol or shampoo. According to co-author Nanshu Lu, the innovation "paves the way for a variety of electronic body tattoos for clinical and non-clinical applications."
Superior Performance and Durability
In tests on five volunteers, e-tattoos matched the performance of traditional EEG electrodes in detecting brain waves. However, after six hours, the conventional electrodes began failing due to drying gel, while the e-tattoos maintained stable performance for at least 24 hours.
The researchers also developed conductive ink lines extending from the e-tattoos to the base of the head, replacing wires. These printed lines transmit signals cleanly without interference, and future versions will include built-in wireless transmitters for added convenience.
Transforming Brain-Computer Interfaces
The e-tattoo technology has implications beyond medical diagnostics. It could significantly advance non-invasive brain-computer interfaces (BCIs), which record brain activity to control external devices like computers or robotic limbs. This is especially beneficial for individuals with paralysis or severe disabilities, offering them greater independence.
"Our study has the potential to revolutionize the design of non-invasive brain-computer interface devices," emphasized José Millán, a co-author of the study.
The technology, currently requiring an hour for application, could soon be fully automated to take just 20 minutes. Published in Cell Biomaterials, this innovation offers a promising future for brain monitoring, diagnostics, and BCI development.
