A method for producing stretchable, bio-compatible metal electrodes that can be soldered to conventional electronic devices is reported this week in Nature Communications. This could allow realization of flexible medical devices such as electrocardiogram sensors.

Sang-Hoon Lee and colleagues developed a stretchable electrode that can withstand repeated strain of up to 20% with minimal reduction in performance. They addressed a major challenge in the integration of flexible and conventional electronics by demonstrating that the electrode can be soldered to rigid electronic devices. They also used the electrode for bio-sensors which were applied to the skin or implanted in mice, showing lack of irritation to the tissues.