Analysis of polymeric based electrodes coated with metallic thin films for biopotential applications

This thesis analyzes the performance of dry surface electrodes through the monitoring of electromyographic bio signals and the application of sustained electrical stimulation. This new array of electrodes has been fabricated with common flexible polymeric substrates coated with metallic thin films and differ from conventional biopotential electrodes in that a layer of an electrolytic gel is not required. Experimental testing was conducted to analyze differences between peak-to-peak voltages during muscular contraction and noise amongst the varying electrode substrates and thin film coatings. From this, the optimal electrode substrate (polyurethane) and thin film coating (TiCu₀.₃₄) were determined and utilized for further testing. This thesis also investigates the relationship between acquired electromyographic signals and amount electrical stimulation and compares these results to commercially available electrodes. The results of the dry surface electrodes show comparable results to commercially available wet electrodes which indicates future inclusion of these electrodes into wearable rehabilitation devices.