Electrochemical foundations of EMG electrode design: advancing signal acquisition for motor function assessment

Purpose This review aims to bridge the gap between electrochemistry and electromyographic (EMG) sensor design by exploring how electrochemical principles influence EMG electrode development and signal analysis for motor function assessment. Design/methodology/approach A structured literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect and Scopus. The analysis focuses on the electrochemical characteristics of the muscle–electrode interface, the design of advanced EMG electrodes using materials like Ag/AgCl, conductive polymers and nanostructures, and the implications for signal acquisition and processing in both clinical and wearable applications. Findings Electrochemical optimization of EMG electrodes significantly improves signal fidelity, reduces noise and enhances comfort for long-term and wearable use. Advances such as PEDOT:PSS coatings, nanomaterial enhancements and hybrid electrode designs enable high-density EMG recording with improved stability. These hardware improvements, when integrated with advanced signal processing and machine learning algorithms, allow for more precise analysis of muscle activation patterns, fatigue states and neuromuscular disorders. Originality/value This review uniquely synthesizes electrochemical theory with practical EMG sensor engineering and data analytics. It emphasizes the importance of electrochemical properties in shaping the performance of EMG systems and demonstrates how interface-level innovations contribute to enhanced diagnostic, rehabilitative and prosthetic applications. The interdisciplinary perspective fosters the development of next-generation EMG technologies for accurate and robust motor function evaluation.