The device will help track changes in the body during training.
Scientists from China have created an unusual smart watch that analyzes the composition of sweat. Such a device will be useful for athletes who need to monitor changes in the body during exercise. Specialists of the Hefei Institute of Physical Sciences of the Chinese Academy of Sciences talked about their work in the journal ACS Nano.
The device looks similar to a regular smartwatch, but it is larger in size. It is equipped with various sensors that process sweat from the human body and study the chemicals in its composition. Sensors will accurately determine the levels of potassium, sodium and calcium ions. You can monitor indicators in real time. The watch can also monitor the concentration of ions for six months. The authors stated that the indicator exceeds the results of other similar devices.
The sensors work on the basis of electrochemical methods. Scientists have developed a microfluidic chip that makes it possible to work with a very small amount of liquid. It can study the composition of even 0.01 ml of sweat. Experts noted that the stability of such a sensor – most importantly for the efficiency and lifetime of the device.
«The research represents a comprehensive approach to materials development, interface mechanism study, mass production of sensor chips, and modular integration, which opens up wider possibilities for wearable electrochemical sweat sensors,&ndash ; scientists noted.
Potassium, sodium and other electrolytes – important elements of the human body. They regulate the functions of nerves and muscles. During exercise, a person loses electrolytes along with sweat. Studying the composition will help you better understand how to fill the ion balance. Scientists who invented an unusual watch for sweat analysis do not specify when their technology will be on the market.