Materials and Wearable Devices for Autonomous Monitoring of Physiological Markers

Abstract

Wearable devices are gaining considerable attention owing to the ease with which they can collect crucial information in real-time, both continuously and noninvasively, regarding a wearer's health. A concise summary is given of the three main elements that enable autonomous detection and monitoring of the likelihood or the existence of a health-risk state in continuous and real-time modes, with an emphasis on emerging materials and fabrication techniques in the relevant fields. The first element is the sensing technology used in the noninvasive detection of physiological markers relevant to the state of health. The second element is self-powered devices for longer periods of use by drawing energy from bodily movement and temperature. The third element is the self-healing properties of the materials used in the wearable devices to extended usage if they become scratched or cut. Promises and challenges of the separately reviewed parts and the combined parts are presented and discussed. Ideas regarding further improvement of skin-based wearable devices are also presented and discussed.

Keywords: health; monitoring; physiological biomarkers; self-healing; self-powered devices; sensors; wearables.