DESIGN OF ELECTRICALLY CONDUCTIVE, HIGHLY STRETCHABLE, HYGIENIC ELECTRODES FOR ELECTROTHERAPY

The main objective of this study was to create versatile and wearable electrically conductive electrodes for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) application, ensuring they are comfortable by depositing silver particles directly onto the carbon particles imparted rubber electrodes. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was used to analyze the shape of the deposited silver particles. To enhance the electrode's performance during body movements, the conductive fabrics were stretched repeatedly, and changes in resistivity were observed. The electrical resistance showed minimal variation with small extensions, remaining relatively constant between 0–75% stretch. Resistance increased significantly after 80% stretch, but the fabric's resistivity remained stable even after over 100 stretching cycles. Additionally, there was no significant change in resistivity over time at a constant current. The study also investigated the antibacterial properties of the deposited particles against bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The antifungal activity assessment using Aspergillus fumigatus further underscores the benefits of the silver-plated elastomers in combating fungal growth. Finally, the durability of the coated fabrics concerning comfort and electrical properties was evaluated through multiple pressure applied, showing good particle retention and only a slight decrease in conductivity.