Sensors Based on Conducting Polymers for Measurement of Physiological Parameters

Sensors based on a conducting polymer, Polypyrrole (PPy), were fabricated to measure physiological variables used in clinical medicine as electrocardiography, impedance plethysmography and body temperature. The fabrication process was also described, which had the advantage of producing disposable or even reusable electrodes. The electrodes were fabricated as membranes or bulk elements according to the requirements for their use. Furthermore, using a PPy/Polylactic acid (PLA) composite, a sensor flexible wristband for continuously measuring body temperature was also fabricated; changes in the PPy/PLA membrane resistivity were observed according to variations of temperature, thus, the response was characterized. Experimental results showed an almost linear and inversely proportional behavior between the temperature and the resistance of the PPy/PLA wristband sensor. The sensors-electrodes based on PPy have transducing functions and show the versatility of nonmetallic elements for biomedical uses. This proposed system is a promising tool for medical care due to its reliability for using over a long period of time; thereby, making life easier for medical staff and increasing the quality of medical care for patients.