Flexible dry electrocardiography electrodes obtained from waste face masks, PEDOT:PSS, and biosynthetic polymers

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the pollution of non-biodegradable medical face masks has caused long-term adverse effects on the marine environment (e.g., rivers, lakes, and oceans) and wildlife health. Converting these face mask wastes into value-added products is crucial in building a low-carbon society. Besides, dry and flexible electrodes are attractive for long-term electrocardiography (ECG) monitoring applications (e.g., early detection of cardiovascular disorders) due to their skin comfort, biocompatibility, and conductive gel-free operation. The study proposes a cost-effective, green, and facile approach for reusing pure polypropylene (PP) plastic substrate from a disposable mask. The PP was coated with poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS)-based composite solution, resulting in a mechanically flexible composite with high electrical conductivity for real-time biopotential monitoring applications. The PP-based ECG electrode demonstrates impressive electrical performance, reaching a surface resistance of 2.2 Ω/sq, indicating its strong potential for continuous and constant ECG signal detection. Furthermore, the PP-based ECG electrodes' surface properties and chemical compositions were characterized using SEM, EDX, and FTIR. This intelligent strategy provides a feasible idea for simultaneously addressing the critical challenges in human society, e.g., medical plastic wastes and health monitoring devices, which could support the Sustainable Development Goals (e.g., good health and well-being and life below water).