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Title: A Novel Sprayable Hydrogel for Improved Electrode Performance in Biomedical

Recordings

1. Background:

The article examines the progress made in creating a new kind of hydrogel that can be sprayed

onto surfaces, known as a sprayable hydrogel (SH), with the specific aim of improving the

performance of electrodes used in biomedical recordings. The main aim of this study is to tackle

prevalent challenges related to conventional electrode gels, including bacterial proliferation,

irritation, and extended settling durations. The theory posits that the utilization of SH has the

potential to substantially diminish the initial contact impedance of dry electrodes, without

exclusively depending on the accumulation of sweat.

2. Description:

The SH formulation consists of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) as a thickening agent,

a saline solution with an ionic concentration comparable to that of sweat, and ethanol as a

volatile and sprayable medium (Boppudi et al., 2019, p. 533). The creation of SH entails the

meticulous blending of these constituents in order to get a solution that exhibits qualities like to

electrode gels found in the market (Boppudi et al., 533). The primary novelty is in the sprayable

nature of SH, which facilitates rapid and effective application onto the skin.
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The electrical characterisation of superconducting hybrids (SH) entails the use of impedance

spectrometry using an HP 4284A Precision LCR meter, as described by Boppudi et al. (535).

The methodology used in this study has resemblance to the electrode designs utilized in other

research (Chen et al., 35). In the study conducted by Boppudi et al. (535), a comparison was

made between five different electrode configurations. These configurations included the

Zipprep™ electrode as the reference electrode, as well as the wet Ag/AgCl, dry Ag/AgCl, SH

applied directly, and SH applied using wipes configurations.

The notable characteristic of this new SH is its sprayable texture, which allows for quick and

efficient application to the skin (Boppudi et al. 533). Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC)

functions as a thickening agent, hence playing a role in the formation of a gel-like texture in SH

(Meziane et al., 47). According to Boppudi et al. (533), the hydrogel's physiological

compatibility is optimized by tailoring the saline solution to meet the ionic concentration often

seen in perspiration. According to Boppudi et al. (533), ethanol serves a dual purpose as a

medium for both evaporation and spraying. This characteristic contributes to the acceleration of

the drying process and enables the even distribution of SH on the skin.

The creation of SH entails a meticulous blending of its components, resulting in a uniform

solution that has favorable characteristics for skin preparation (Chu et al., 364). The described

methodology is in accordance with the objective of developing a hydrogel that may be

effectively administered by spray administration, hence obviating the need for conventional gel

delivery techniques (Yogendra et al. 533).

The study follows the method of Stauffer et al. (35), which involves conducting electrical

characterization of SH using impedance spectrometry with the use of an HP 4284A Precision

LCR meter. This technique has been used in previous studies to evaluate various electrode
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configurations, thus it is a reliable and common way to assess materials' electrical properties

(Chen et al., 35).

Boppudi et al. (535) evaluate five electrode configurations, gaining insight into the effectiveness

of skin preparation for biomedical recordings employing SH. The benchmark configurations

include the ZipprepTM electrode (which serves as the reference), a wet Ag/AgCl electrode, a dry

Ag/AgCl electrode, SH applied directly, and SH applied using wipes (Boppudi et al., 535).

3. Advantages and Disadvantages:

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Advantages of SH:

An inventive way to prep the skin before taking electrocardiograms (ECGs) and other

biopotentials is to use the Sprayable Hydrogel (SH). The issues with conventional dry electrodes

may be resolved with this method. Boppudi et al. (2020) released a formulation named SH to

improve skin-electrode contact properties. A combination of ethanol—a salty solution that

simulates sweat's ionic composition—and Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) produces

SH (Nagamine et al., 50). The purpose of this formulation is to have a consistency that is

appropriate for spraying.

The analysis of electrical properties of SH using impedance spectrometry, with the aid of an HP

4284A Precision LCR meter, is a crucial component in comprehending its operational

capabilities (Boppudi et al., 534). This research examines five different electrode configurations,

including the Zipprep™ reference electrode, wet Ag/AgCl, dry Ag/AgCl, and SH, in two distinct

application methods: direct application and application using wipes. The thorough comparison

conducted enables a full assessment of SH in reference to well-established electrode designs.

The beneficial characteristics of SH are apparent in its reduced initial contact impedance, a

crucial element that impacts the quality of signals in biomedical recordings (Li et al., 250). The

aforementioned attribute grants SH a competitive advantage over traditional dry electrodes, so

guaranteeing a more effective and dependable connection with the skin. Significantly, the

decreased settling durations of solid-state hydrogel (SH) electrodes bring it in line with the

performance of wet electrodes, presenting a desirable amalgamation of rapid application and

reliable signal capture (Hnat, 35).

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Furthermore, the physiological compatibility of SH is shown by its little bacterial growth and

irritation. According to Boppudi et al. (533), the inclusion of HPMC, saline solution, and ethanol

in the formulation of SH is a deliberate measure aimed at reducing the likelihood of skin

irritation. This formulation is intended to enhance the comfort and safety of users, particularly

during prolonged recording sessions.

The efficient application and rapid drying procedure of SH further increase its usage. According

to Albulbul (53), the use of SH, which has a sprayable texture and incorporates ethanol as an

evaporative agent, enhances the efficiency of skin preparation during electrode application. This

results in a reduction in the total time needed for the procedure when compared to conventional

approaches.

When compared to currently available electrode topologies, the use of SH demonstrates

significant potential as a promising improvement, as it effectively combines the advantageous

characteristics of both dry and wet electrodes. The electrical properties of SH, together with its

user-friendly features, make it a great instrument for biomedical purposes. This justifies the need

for more investigation and incorporation of SH into regular clinical procedures.

Disadvantages:

Although the Sprayable Hydrogel (SH) offers several benefits in the field of skin preparation for

biomedical recordings, it is not exempt from some constraints. A detailed evaluation of the

suitability of SH in different circumstances requires a thorough understanding of these

limitations.

One important factor to take into account is the need of performing a comprehensive shaking

process before to application, as noted by Reyes et al. (1863). In contrast to conventional dry
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electrodes, which may be used immediately upon contact with the skin, SH electrodes need a

preliminary procedure. The need for agitation arises from the distinctive composition of SH,

which incorporates Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) as a substance used for thickening.

This particular attribute plays a crucial role in attaining the desired sprayable texture of SH, but it

necessitates an extra procedural step during the application phase.

Furthermore, while surface hydration (SH) electrodes demonstrate innovation by obtaining a

reduced initial contact impedance in comparison to dry electrodes, they do not reach the very low

impedance levels of wet electrodes (Kaappa et al., 60). The use of wet electrodes, as investigated

by Meziane et al. (2013), offers advantages due to the immediate moisturization of the skin via

electrode gel, resulting in a prompt reduction in impedance. The observed discrepancy in

impedance values indicates that while the use of SH electrodes represents an advancement

compared to dry electrodes, more enhancements are necessary in order to meet the performance

standard established by wet electrodes.

Furthermore, the practical issue of probable difficulties in spraying when not used under ideal

circumstances is a worry that is related with SH, as noted by Boppudi et al. (533). The

performance of self-healing (SH) materials during application may be influenced by several

environmental conditions, including temperature and humidity. This observation is consistent

with the results reported by Li et al. (2018), who conducted a study examining the impedance

characteristics of several electrode-skin interfaces under varying situations. It is important to

comprehend the susceptibility of SH to environmental factors in order to optimize its efficacy

across various contexts.

Comparison with Traditional Electrodes:

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In the assessment of the effectiveness of the Sprayable Hydrogel (SH) in the context of skin

preparation for biomedical recordings, doing a comparison study with conventional electrodes

yields significant information into its advantages and areas that may need further development.

One of the noteworthy benefits of surface hydration (SH) resides in its superior performance

compared to dry electrodes in terms of first contact impedance (Nunes et al., 1468). Dry

electrodes, such as those constructed from stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium, often have

elevated impedance values, resulting in extended periods required for stabilization (Boppudi et

al., 533). Within this particular context, it becomes evident that SH presents itself as a more

advantageous option due to its ability to provide a reduced initial contact impedance.

Consequently, this characteristic contributes to enhanced efficiency and reliability in the process

of recording.

Furthermore, the performance of SH is shown to be equivalent to that of wet electrodes, thereby

resolving a prevalent difficulty connected with the use of gels in wet electrodes. According to

Meziane et al. (2013), conventional wet electrodes need the use of a conductive gel in order to

achieve maximum functionality. However, the use of such gel introduces potential

disadvantages, including skin irritation and annoyance during the application process. The use of

SH addresses these concerns by offering a gel-free alternative that attains impedance values

comparable to those of wet electrodes. This observation is consistent with the results reported by

Shahandashti et al. (2019), who presented a novel kind of stretchy dry electrodes that are

extremely adaptable and do not need the use of hydrogel. This highlights the importance of

exploring gel-free options in this field.

Moreover, Li, Guangli et al. (1244) have shown that the attainment of stability in SH occurs

within a tolerable temporal framework. The significance of this characteristic cannot be

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overstated in practical contexts within healthcare and research settings, where the ability to get

prompt and dependable recordings is of utmost importance. The efficient stability achieved by

SH makes it a competitive option among the several electrode designs that are currently

available.

Therefore, the examination of SH in relation to conventional electrodes highlights its merits,

such as its superior initial contact impedance in comparison to dry electrodes, its comparable

performance to wet electrodes without the disadvantages of gels, and its ability to attain stability

within a reasonable period. The aforementioned characteristics establish SH as a potentially

groundbreaking advancement in electrode technology, effectively addressing the divide between

dry and wet electrode systems.

4. References:

Albulbul, Anas. Analyzing the effect of an externally applied force on the electrode-skin

impedance. Diss. Carleton University, 2013.

Boppudi, Sunil Tej, Suliman Belal, and Sitaramanjaneya Reddy Guntur. "Preparation and

characterization of a novel sprayable hydrogel for skin preparation to record ECG and

other biopotentials." Biomedical Engineering Letters 10.4 (2020): 533-546.

Chen, Yun-Hsuan, Chris Van Hoof, and Maaike Op De Beeck. "Polymer-based Dry Electrodes

for Biopotential Measurements." (2016).

Chen, Yun-Hsuan, et al. "Soft, comfortable polymer dry electrodes for high quality ECG and

EEG recording." Sensors 14.12 (2014): 23758-23780.

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Chu, Hao, et al. "A Portable ECG Patch Monitor Based on Flexible Non-hydrogel

Electrode." Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering 42.3 (2022): 364-373.

Hnat, Andrew Thomas. Characterization of Impedance Properties of A Conductive Electrospun

Polymer Biopotential Electrode with Porous Fiber Arrays. Diss. San Diego State

University, 2019.

Kaappa, Emma Sofia, et al. "The electrical impedance measurements of dry electrode materials

for the ECG measuring after repeated washing." Research Journal of Textile and

Apparel 21.1 (2017): 59-71.

Li, Guangli, Sizhe Wang, and Yanwen Y. Duan. "Towards conductive-gel-free electrodes:

Understanding the wet electrode, semi-dry electrode and dry electrode-skin interface

impedance using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy fitting." Sensors and

Actuators B: Chemical 277 (2018): 250-260.

Li, Guangli, Sizhe Wang, and Yanwen Y. Duan. "Towards gel-free electrodes: A systematic

study of electrode-skin impedance." Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical 241 (2017):

1244-1255.

Meziane, N., et al. "Dry electrodes for electrocardiography." Physiological measurement 34.9

(2013): R47.

Nagamine, Kuniaki, et al. "Totally shape-conformable electrode/hydrogel composite for on-skin

electrophysiological measurements." Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical 237 (2016): 49-

53.
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Nunes, Tiago, and Hugo Plácido da Silva. "Characterization and Validation of Flexible Dry

Electrodes for Wearable Integration." Sensors 23.3 (2023): 1468.

Reyes, Bersain A., et al. "Novel electrodes for underwater ECG monitoring." IEEE Transactions

on Biomedical Engineering 61.6 (2014): 1863-1876.

Shahandashti, Peyman Fayyaz, et al. "Highly conformable stretchable dry electrodes based on

inexpensive flex substrate for long-term biopotential (EMG/ECG) monitoring." Sensors

and Actuators A: Physical 295 (2019): 678-686.

Stauffer, Flurin, et al. "Skin conformal polymer electrodes for clinical ECG and EEG

recordings." Advanced healthcare materials 7.7 (2018): 1700994.

Yogendra, M. S., et al. "Development of fabric electrode for bio-potential signal acquisition in

wearable health monitoring and effect of perspiration on signal acquisition." Journal of

Industrial Textiles 51.2_suppl (2022): 2148S-2162S.