Health

Revolutionary Spray-on ‘Tattoos’ To Replace EEGs For More Effective Brain Monitoring

Nanshu Lu / University of Texas at Austin

In a groundbreaking development, engineers in Texas have introduced an innovative bio-technology interface that could drastically change the way we monitor brain activity: spray-on tattoos that function as brain sensors. This pioneering technology challenges nearly a century of reliance on electroencephalograms (EEGs) for recording brainwave activity, offering a more efficient, long-lasting, and comfortable solution.

Traditional EEGs face limitations

For almost 100 years, the electroencephalogram (EEG) has been the gold standard for monitoring brain activity. Despite its long history, EEGs have certain limitations. They often become ineffective after around six hours, and applying the electrodes can be particularly challenging for individuals with long or thick hair. These issues can hinder both the comfort and accuracy of brain activity monitoring, especially during prolonged sessions.

However, researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new solution: spray-on tattoos that work just as effectively as traditional EEGs, but without the associated drawbacks. The tattoos, made from a biocompatible gel infused with hundreds of tiny sensors, can be applied directly to the skin and monitor brainwaves with precision.

A breakthrough in wearable technology

The tattoo application process is incredibly straightforward. The precise locations for the sensors are mapped out using a computer, and then a specialized inkjet printer applies the ink in a matter of minutes. The ink quickly dries to form a durable tattoo that is both comfortable and efficient, without the need for wires or bulky equipment.

The real advantage of these EEG-tattoos is their ability to seamlessly adhere to the skin, even over hair. Traditional EEG electrodes can struggle to stay attached to hair-covered scalps, but the spray-on tattoos penetrate effortlessly through hair, offering a more reliable and consistent signal. “Our innovations in sensor design, biocompatible ink, and high-speed printing pave the way for future on-body manufacturing of electronic tattoo sensors,” said Nanshu Lu, a lead researcher at the University of Texas at Austin. “It has broad applications both within and beyond clinical settings.”

24-hour durability and enhanced performance

When tested against traditional EEGs, the spray-on tattoos performed remarkably well. After six hours, the traditional electrodes, often coated with gel, began to degrade. As the gel dried, signal strength weakened, with one-third of the electrodes ceasing to function altogether. In stark contrast, the EEG-tattoo remained fully operational for a full 24 hours without any signal loss, demonstrating its superior durability and reliability.

These tattoos offer long-lasting performance that could drastically improve brain activity monitoring, particularly for extended periods. The fact that they don’t need to be reapplied throughout the day makes them a game-changer for patients and researchers alike.

A new frontier for wearable technology

The team didn’t stop there. By tweaking the ink mixture, they were able to take their work one step further. The researchers successfully sprayed “wires” onto the skin, which transmit data to a small collection device. This added feature brings the potential for these tattoos to not only monitor brain activity but also send the data wirelessly to devices for further analysis, making the technology even more powerful.

“E-tattoos represent a new frontier in wearable technology,” Lu said. “This is just the beginning of what we can achieve.”

While this technology is still in the early stages, its potential applications are vast. In addition to medical and clinical uses, the technology could become a vital tool in various fields, such as neuroprosthetics, cognitive research, and even sports performance monitoring. Athletes are already employing similar wearable technologies to monitor physical performance, and the brain-sensing tattoos could soon follow suit.

The future of brain-computer interfaces

One of the most exciting prospects for the spray-on EEG tattoos is their potential to revolutionize brain-computer interface (BCI) technology. Traditionally, BCIs rely on bulky headsets or electrodes to monitor brain activity, which can be cumbersome and uncomfortable for users. The new spray-on tattoos, however, could eliminate the need for external devices, creating a more streamlined and accessible experience for users.

“Our study can potentially revolutionize the way non-invasive brain-computer interface devices are designed,” said José Millán, another co-author of the study. “By printing sensors directly onto the scalp, e-tattoos could eliminate the need for headsets altogether, making these devices more accessible and easier to use.”

This breakthrough technology could reshape how BCIs are used in various applications, from medical treatments for brain disorders to enhancing human-computer interactions in everyday life. The ability to print sensors directly onto the scalp represents a significant step toward a future where brain activity can be monitored more seamlessly and efficiently than ever before.

Transforming brain monitoring

The spray-on EEG tattoos are poised to redefine the way we monitor brain activity, offering a more durable, comfortable, and efficient alternative to traditional methods. While the technology is still in its infancy, its potential applications in clinical settings, sports science, and beyond are immense. As the research and development continue, it is clear that these tattoos are just the beginning of what promises to be a revolution in wearable technology and brain-computer interfaces.