Highly stretchable and conformal bioinspired kirigami structural epidermal electrodes for ECG recording during daily activities

The conformal adaptation of epidermal electrodes to the skin is crucial for achieving stable electrocardiogram (ECG) signal monitoring during exercise. Here, we present a bioinspired kirigami-structured epidermal electrode (BKSEE) specifically designed for dynamic human-machine interfaces. The BKSEE consists of three distinct layers: a copper electrode featuring a bioinspired kirigami structure (BKS), an adhesive film made of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and a PDMS anti-adhesion film. The BKSEE overcomes the limitations of existing static conformal designs for metal electrodes. It simultaneously offers low stiffness for adaptation of skin, the combined advantages of a high filling area and stable dynamic contact, as well as excellent deformability, favorable microscopic conformability, and reliable adhesion. By meeting the multidimensional requirements for skin-conformal fitting, it can collect ECG signals in real time and stably during daily activities, and demonstrates remarkable resistance to sweat and motion artifacts.