A Complementary Dual-Mode Ion-Electron Conductive Hydrogel Enables Sustained Conductivity for Prolonged Electroencephalogram Recording.

Abstract

Conductive gel interface materials are widely employed as reliable agents for electroencephalogram (EEG) recording. However, prolonged EEG recording poses challenges in maintaining stable and efficient capture due to inevitable evaporation in hydrogels, which restricts sustained high conductivity. This study introduces a novel ion-electron dual-mode conductive hydrogel synthesized through a cost-effective and streamlined process. By embedding graphite nanoparticles into ionic hyaluronic acid (HAGN), the hydrogel maintains higher conductivity for over 72h, outperforming commercial gels. Additionally, it exhibits superior low skin contact impedance, considerable electrochemical capability, and excellent tensile and adhesion performance in both dry and wet conditions. The biocompatibility of the HAGN hydrogel, verified through in vitro cell viability assays and in vivo skin irritation tests, underscores its suitability for prolonged skin contact without eliciting adverse reactions. Furthermore, in vivo EEG tests confirm the HAGN hydrogel's capability to provide high-fidelity signal acquisition across multiple EEG protocols. The HAGN hydrogel proves to be an effective interface for prolonged high-quality EEG recording, facilitating high-performance capture and classification of evoked potentials, thereby providing a reliable conductive medium for EEG-based systems.