Synergy of a Complimentary Ionic Biogel Network for Through-Hair Neurohaptics
Research Poster Engineering 2025 Graduate ExhibitionPresentation by Ankan Dutta
Exhibition Number 23
Abstract
Understanding the neural mechanisms underlying haptic sensations is crucial for advancing neuroprosthetics. However, achieving on-site amplification non-invasively through-hair neural recordings remains a significant challenge as it requires thermoreversible, bioadhesive, and semiconducting characteristics in the same material. Typical polymer composite compromises on complementary properties. To address this, we present a membraneless organelles - inspired ionic biogel that leverages liquid–liquid phase separation. This enables a unique synergy of complementary properties, including rapid thermoreversible transitions, p-type semiconductivity, thermoelectricity, enhanced electrochemical stability, self-healing, and bioadhesive capabilities. These characteristics enable to analyze the frequency dependence of event-related desynchronization during electrical stimulation over days mimicking the frequency response of mechanoreceptors sensation. This thermoresponsive, semiconducting ionic biogel also enables a phase-reversible, self-balancing, tip-shaped vertical organic electrochemical transistor with a high transconductance of 44 mS at 40°C. The ionic biogel demonstrates synergistic complementary properties to understand through-hair neurohaptics.
Importance
Understanding how the brain perceives touch is crucial for advancing prosthetic technology and immersive digital experiences. However, capturing these neural signals non-invasively through hair-covered areas remains a challenge. This study introduces a novel, soft, and semi-conductive gel that can seamlessly record brain activity through hair while also delivering electrical stimulation to create artificial touch sensations. Inspired by how cells organize materials without membranes, this gel combines two distinct networks, one providing adhesion and flexibility, and the other ensuring electrical conductivity and stability. The findings pave the way for better prosthetic control, improved rehabilitation techniques, and enhanced virtual reality experiences by making neural interfaces more accessible, comfortable, and effective for long-term use.
DEI Statement
My research focuses on developing non-invasive neural interfaces that improve accessibility to neuroprosthetics and neurorehabilitation for diverse populations, including individuals with motor disabilities. Traditional neural interfaces often exclude individuals with coarse, curly, or dense hair due to high skin-electrode impedance, disproportionately affecting Black and Indigenous communities. By designing a thermoresponsive, bioadhesive, and semiconducting ionic biogel, my work enables high-fidelity neural recordings across all hair types, ensuring inclusivity in brain-computer interface technology. Additionally, this research addresses health disparities by facilitating long-term, cost-effective neurorehabilitation for stroke and spinal cord injury patients. Through this work, I aim to bridge the gap in neurotechnology accessibility, fostering equitable healthcare solutions and expanding participation in neuroengineering research for underrepresented communities.