Engineering news
Researchers from the University of Surrey and Trinity College Dublin have developed graphene rubber bands that can be used as a medical sensor.
The rubber bands were infused with liquid-exfoliated graphene to create conducting composites that impart an electromechanical response on movement. After treatment they remained pliable, displaying 104-fold increases in resistance and as working at strains exceeding 800%.
The team then developed a number of sensors able to measure a patient's breathing, heart rate or movement, alerting doctors to any irregularities.
Vitally, said the researchers, the sensors can effectively track dynamic strain, working well at vibration frequencies of at least 160 Hz.
Although body motion sensors already exist in different forms, they have not been widely used due to their complexity and cost of production.
Dr Alan Dalton, senior lecturer in the Department of Physics at the University of Surrey, said: "Until now, no such sensor has been produced that meets needs and that can be easily made. It sounds like a simple concept, but our graphene-infused rubber bands could really help to revolutionise remote healthcare.”
Professor Jonathan Coleman from the School of Physics at Trinity College, Dublin said: "This stretchy material senses motion such as breathing, pulse and joint movement and could be used to create lightweight sensor suits for vulnerable patients such as premature babies, making it possible to remotely monitor their subtle movements and alert a doctor to any worrying behaviours.
"These sensors are extraordinarily cheap compared to existing technologies. Each device would probably cost pennies instead of pounds, making it ideal technology for use in developing countries where there are not enough medically trained staff to effectively monitor and treat patients quickly."