South Korea Develops Nanotechnology Tattoos To Monitor Health

This illustration. (Unsplash/@cblack09)

JAKARTA - South Koreans may soon be able to carry devices within themselves, in the form of bespoke tattoos, automatically alerting them of potential health problems, if a science team project comes to fruition.

Researchers at the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) in Daejeon City southwest of Seoul, have developed an electronic tattoo ink made of liquid metal and carbon nanotubes that acts as a bioelectrode.

Connected to an electrocardiogram (ECG) device or other biosensor, it can send readings of the patient's heart rate and other vital signs, such as glucose and lactate to a monitor.

The ultimate goal of the experts of this research is to replace the biosensor

"In the future, what we hope to do is connect wireless chips that integrate with these inks, so we can communicate, or we can send signals back and forth between bodies to external devices," said project leader Steve Park, a professor of materials science and engineering. technique, launched Reuters August 2.

Such 'monitors' could in theory be placed anywhere, including in the patient's home.

The ink used is non-invasive and is made of particles based on gallium, a soft, silvery metal that is also used in semiconductors or thermometers. Platinum-encrusted carbon nanotubes help conduct electricity while providing durability.

"When applied to the skin, even by rubbing, the tattoo will not disappear, which is not possible with just molten metal," says Park.