Work

Configurable Ultracompact Electrode Kernel for Electromyography Recordings Using Screen Printed Logic Circuits Based on Organic Electrochemical Transistors

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: High‐density electromyography (EMG) using matrix electrodes requires complex hardware and extensive wiring. Here, the concept of screen printed multipad electrode kernels based on organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) is demonstrated. Each kernel integrates eight OECT‐based EMG transmission channels and an OECT‐based 3–8 decoder for channel selection; three inputs set one of the eight channels in conductive state, while the others are blocked, to allow EMG signal routing from the selected skin electrode pad to the input of an electrophysiological amplifier. The functionality of the device is verified in the laboratory and during real‐time EMG recording by placing the kernel on the arm of a participant performing muscle contractions. The signals recorded by the kernel are qualitatively similar to those acquired using a benchmark EMG electrode, although the signal‐to‐noise ratio is lower. This is mainly due to the smaller size of the skin pads, which increases the impedance of the electrode–skin contacts. Multiple kernels can be integrated to further enhance the configurability and enable skin pad selection over relevant muscle regions, reducing the complexity of amplification and acquisition hardware. Additionally, screen printing on conformable substrates enables scalable manufacturing of multipad electrodes in different shapes and sizes, tailored to specific wearable applications.

Source: Small Structures

DOI: 10.1002/sstr.70655