Highly robust ECG electrodes constructed from semi-liquid metal fibers for reliable emergency rescue monitoring

Global disasters are occurring with increasing frequency, and the stable acquisition of physiological electrical signals from injured individuals is crucial in emergency rescue operations. Conventional patch electrodes are susceptible to signal distortion due to skin contamination and body movement, and their poor breathability often causes discomfort, making them inadequate for rescue scenarios. This study proposes a highly robust surface electrode based on semi-liquid metal (SLM) fibers. The electrode employs pre-stretched elastic fibers as the substrate, coated with SLM to achieve high electrical conductivity, and utilizes wrapping-induced constriction force to enhance fixation. The SLM fiber electrode is not affected by skin contaminants and can be tightly wrapped around multiple limb parts. The wrapped structure of the fiber electrode provides high breathability, preventing skin irritation, and allows rapid and efficient deployment. In practical applications, this SLM fiber electrode facilitates the reliable acquisition of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, enabling the monitoring in emergency situations as well as continuous and comfortable ECG monitoring after surgery, and provides an innovative solution for emergency medical monitoring.