PDMS/Graphene Composite Electrostimulation Electrodes for Parkinson’s Disease Smart Garment

Maria Sawiak, Vivian mushawar, Patricia I Dolez

Keywords: Parkinson's Disease, Neuromuscular electrostimulation, Textile electrodes, Reuseable

TL;DR: Work done on reuseable electrode for a smart garment that will be used for parkinson's disease

Abstract: This paper highlights work done to develop washable, garment-embedded electrodes for a smart garment that will eventually be designed to mitigate the motor symptoms of Parkinson's Disease (PD). The electrodes were fabricated using a composite of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and a water-based graphene dispersion, with a silver-plated fabric as the substrate. The research resulted in a composite with a porous structure. The impact of various parameters were also explored and revealed that different morphology resulted in changes to the composites adhesion to the fabric, and that higher curing temperatures negatively impacted mechanical properties. Optimal graphene loading was determined to be 5-7%, with concentrations below 1.8% resulting in non-conductive electrodes. This work successfully demonstrates a promising solution for creating a comfortable, wearable system that can help manage PD-related mobility impairments.

Submission Number: 67