Innovative Wearable Sensor Detects Sweat Biomarkers at Low Perspiration Levels

Recent advancements in wearable technology have opened new avenues for health monitoring, especially through sweat analysis. A team at Penn State University has developed a groundbreaking device capable of detecting vital biomarkers with minimal sweat production, addressing a significant limitation of current sensors. Conventional sweat sensors rely on the collection of a substantial amount of perspiration, which can be challenging for individuals with low sweat rates, such as critically ill patients or during rest.

The novel sensor, described in the journal Small, is designed to sit comfortably on the skin much like a bandage and employs a unique granular hydrogel scaffold to enhance sweat collection. This scaffold, consisting of jammed microscale hydrogel particles, facilitates greater absorption even at very low perspiration rates—ranging from 10 to 100 nanoliters per minute per square centimeter. This is a substantial improvement over traditional hydrogel-based systems, which often lose liquid during uptake.

The device features a microfluidic chamber constructed with laser-induced graphene (LIG), a highly sensitive material engineered to identify specific molecules like lactate, a biomarker associated with oxygen deprivation, sepsis, or organ failure. The spiral design of the chamber increases surface area, ensuring efficient transport and detection of sweat components.

This wearable sensor is not only sensitive but also cost-effective and comfortable, resembling a typical bandage with an almost skin-like feel. It has been successfully tested during various activities—from sedentary office work to exercise—confirming its ability to produce accurate readings within two hours by gathering even small amounts of sweat.

Lorestani emphasizes the device’s potential to revolutionize non-invasive health monitoring by making it accessible and practical for continuous use. The platform’s versatility allows it to be adapted for detecting different biomarkers by simply changing the sensor component, paving the way for personalized healthcare solutions.

Overall, this innovation represents a significant step towards accessible, real-time health monitoring, especially for conditions where sweat production is minimal. By improving detection capabilities at low perspiration levels, this technology holds promise for early diagnosis, ongoing health management, and enhanced athletic performance tracking.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-dont-device-biomarker-minimal-perspiration.html