title: CNT/PDMS-based canal-typed ear electrodes for inconspicuous EEG recording.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Current electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring systems typically require cumbersome electrodes that must be pasted on a scalp, making a private recording of an EEG in a public place difficult. We have developed a small, user friendly, biocompatible electrode with a good appearance for inconspicuous EEG monitoring.
  
  
  METHODS
  We fabricated carbon nanotube polydimethylsiloxane (CNT/PDMS)-based canal-type ear electrodes (CEE) for EEG recording. These electrodes have an additional function, triggering sound stimulation like earphones and recording EEG simultaneously for auditory brain-computer interface (BCI). The electrode performance was evaluated by a standard EEG measurement paradigm, including the detection of alpha rhythms and measurements of N100 auditory evoked potential (AEP), steady-state visual evoked potential (SSVEP) and auditory steady-state response (ASSR). Furthermore, the bio- and skin-compatibility of CNT/PDMS were tested.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All feasibility studies were successfully recorded with the fabricated electrodes, and the biocompatibility of CNT/PDMS was also proved.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  These electrodes could be used to monitor EEG clinically, in ubiquitous health care and in brain-computer interfaces.
authors: Department of Bio-convergence Engineering, College of Health Science, Korea University, Seoul 136-100, Korea.
authors: Joong
authors: J
authors: Hoon Lee
authors: Seung
authors: S
authors: Min Lee
authors: Hang
authors: H
authors: Jin Byeon
authors: Joung
authors: J
authors: Sook Hong
authors: Kwang
authors: K
authors: Suk Park
authors: Sang-Hoon
authors: SH
authors: Lee
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000513:Alpha Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D062207:Brain-Computer Interfaces; D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes; D004424:Ear Canal; D004566:Electrodes; D004569:Electroencephalography / Q000295:instrumentation*; D005072:Evoked Potentials, Auditory / Q000502:physiology; D005074:Evoked Potentials, Visual / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008422:Materials Testing; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon; D011474:Prosthesis Design; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D004129:Dimethylpolysiloxanes; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon; C013830:baysilon