Researchers have designed a 3D-patterned, graphene-based, dry sensor that can measure the brain's electrical activity without relying on conductive gels. The dry sensors are less irritating and allergenic compared to traditional 'wet' sensors used in electroencephalography (EEG) to diagnose neurolog
A new sensor design integrated into a blue headband was used to wirelessly control a robot using only brain waves. Credit: Adapted from ACS Applied Nano Materials, 2023, DOI: 10.1021/acsanm.2c05546-based, dry sensor that can measure the brain’s electrical activity without relying on conductive gels.
Physicians monitor electrical signals from the brain with electroencephalography , in which specialized electrodes are either implanted into or placed on the surface of the head. EEG helps diagnose neurological disorders, but it can also be incorporated into “brain-machine interfaces,” which use brain waves to control an external device, such as a prosthetic limb, robot, or even a video game.
Although nanomaterials like graphene could be a suitable option, their flat and typically flaky nature makes them incompatible with the uneven curves of the human head, particularly over long periods. So, Francesca Iacopi and colleagues wanted to create a 3D, graphene-based sensor based on polycrystalline graphene that could accurately monitor brain activity without any stickiness.
When combined with an augmented reality headset displaying visual cues, the electrodes could detect which cue was being viewed, then work with a computer to interpret the signals into commands that controlled the motion of a four-legged robot — completely hands-free.