Wearable technology has seen limited innovation recently, especially in biosensing capabilities. However, researchers at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore have made a breakthrough with a new smart patch that analyzes sweat to find biomarkers

Cutting-Edge Sweat Analysis

The smart patch, which resembles a Band-Aid, uses a hydrogel-based film with chemical receptacles to measure lactate, urea, and glucose levels. This method, detailed in the journal Analytical Chemistry, is completely non-invasive.

A tiny laser, central to the sensor, wrapped in liquid crystal droplets, controls the laser’s function. This assembly and a soft hydrogel ensure the patch remains flexible and comfortable.

Unparalleled Accuracy

The team claims this wearable sensor is the first to detect and measure various chemicals in sweat with exceptional accuracy. It captures data from tiny to large concentrations and delivers results in minutes via a smartphone app, making it more convenient than visiting a clinic.

Implications for Health Monitoring

Professor Chen Yu-Cheng from NTU’s School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (EEE) highlights the patch’s potential for diabetic patients. Unlike current methods, it offers a quick and pleasant way to monitor health without invasive procedures.

Industry Impact

Currently, companies like Apple and Samsung are racing to perfect smartwatch-based glucose analysis. However, NTU’s smart patch offers a standalone solution with broader applications, such as monitoring urea and lactate levels, which can indicate diabetes-related issues and workout intensities.

Future Prospects

Despite its current form not being integrable with smartwatches, the smart patch could inspire new product categories in wearable biosensing. Brands like Ultrahuman already offer sensor-equipped skin patches, showing the market’s potential.

NTU’s innovation opens the door to non-invasive, accurate health monitoring, pushing the boundaries of wearable technology.