Stage: Biomarker-sensor research; proposed diaper application
Penn State reported on March 11, 2024 on flexible sensors developed with researchers at the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. The work uses titanium-dioxide films on flexible electrodes to measure biochemical signals, including dopamine in urine.
The university identifies integration into smart diapers as a possible application, including for people with limited mobility. It extends sensing research beyond wetness alerts, but does not establish that a diaper can diagnose Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease or another condition. This is a 2024 research announcement.