Fabrication and characterization of a microneedle array electrode with flexible backing for biosignal monitoring

Abstract

The conventional wet electrode for recording biosignals poses many inconveniences, as it requires an electrolytic gel that dries over time changing its electrical characteristics. The skin typically needs to be abraded when the electrode is applied to record high-quality signals, requiring assistance of trained personnel for the placement of the wet electrode. Alternative electrode designs to overcome these challenges often have difficulties recording small amplitude signals or their fabrication methods are complex and expensive. This research proposes a novel design and a simple fabrication method for a dry microneedle electrode for biosignal monitoring. The electrode can record electroencephalogram and electrocardiogram signals from a human subject without electrolytic gel and it does not require skin preparation such as abrasion, making it suitable for long term measurements as opposed to the wet electrode. When applied to the skin of a human subject with an impact inserter, the electrode has a lower impedance at the skin–electrode interface yielding better signal recording compared to application by hand. The selected electrode materials provides microneedles stiff enough to cross the outmost layer of the skin, while the flexible backing of the electrode has been designed to improve the conformation of the electrode to the rounded shape of the body. The proposed fabrication method for the electrode is based on a simple mold casting process that enables batch production while also reducing the time spent in a cleanroom and the use of expensive machinery.