VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland has developed an environmentally sustainable electrocardiogram (ECG) patch made of biomaterials. The patch is modular, allowing electronic components to be easily removed and reused, and it is made of a new biodegradable material called cellulose e-skin, replacing traditional plastic in wearable skin applications.

ECG patches are widely used to monitor heart conditions by recording the heart’s electrical signals. However, current ECG patches are composed of electrical components on fossil-based substrates. The growing need for sustainable ECG patches is driven by the increasing prevalence of atrial fibrillation and cardiovascular disorders, as well as the aging world population. As a result, the global ECG patch and Holter monitor market is projected to expand 20% annually from 2023 to 2030.

VTT’s cellulose e-skin ECG patch represents a significant step toward more sustainable medical devices and wearable electronics, with potential applications beyond ECG monitoring.

Article written by Michael Barbella

20/07/2023

Source:

MPO

https://www.mpo-mag.com/contents/view_breaking-news/2023-07-20/finnish-researchers-develop-biodegradable-ecg-patch/