Researchers Develop Conductive Microsheet Electrode for Skin Biosignal Recording

Researchers at the University of Tokyo and collaborating institutions developed a microsheet electrode designed for on-skin biosignal measurement. The electrode combines polyurethane with self-doped poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) to achieve conductivity on both sides of the sheet.

The device shows a sheet resistance of 2–4 kΩ per square and an adhesion energy of 60 µJ per square centimeter. It maintains air stability for up to three weeks, according to the study published in npj Flexible Electronics.

The electrode recorded electrocardiograms inside a sauna where temperatures exceeded 90 °C and heavy sweating occurred. The fully conductive construction eliminates the need to insert wires between the skin and the electrode. The work addresses limitations of earlier nano-sheet electrodes that typically offered conductivity on only one side of an insulating film.

The new design aims to improve flexibility, gas permeability, and stable attachment during human motion. The study received support from AMED under grant number JP243fa627001. It was published online on 24 May 2026.