Electronic Tattoo Can Map Skin Temperature

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed an ultra-thin electronic skin patch that can be used to measure temperature. A study of the device was published in Nature Materials.

At the university, John Rogers and his team have developed a series of electronic skin patches. Other patches created by his team include wireless antennas, LEDs, RF capacitors, transistors, solar cells and conductive coils.

The pliable, miniature patch is designed to work as a person's skin stretches and contracts. Since it can measure skin-level temperature with a high degree of accuracy, it can be used to monitor heat flow and blood vessel dilation / constriction in the body. In addition, the novel patch can work over a continuous period of time.

Resembling a tattoo, the device is applied with a specialized glue. The patches have the ability to work in both forward and reverse; if desired, the patch can deliver heat to a person's skin. By either monitoring voltage or delivering a certain voltage, researchers can switch the device back and forth between a thermometer and a miniature heater.