New publication: Electrochemical characterisation of new textile electrodes based on a conductive silicon yarn for bioelectrical stimulation

Functional electrical stimulation is a widely used therapeutic method for restoring damaged or lost neurological functions, for example, after a stroke or for rehabilitation after accidents and surgeries. The electrodes used play a decisive role in terms of effectiveness, comfort and skin compatibility.

In our paper, we present a new textile electrode based on a conductive silicone yarn for bioelectrical stimulation. We consider two realisations of the electrode, one with a push button and one where the yarn itself is used for contacting. We analyse their electrochemical properties: impedance, electrode potential, and noise. The electrodes with push button have comparable or even lower impedances than conventional textile stimulation electrodes, while the electrodes without push button show higher impedances in comparison. The stability of the electrode potential and the noise behaviour of both electrode realisations are comparable to those of conventional electrode types.

In addition to its electrochemical performance, the new electrode offers high skin compatibility, high wearing comfort, and sustainability. It thus represents a promising alternative for future bioelectrical stimulation applications.

Original publication:

Lange, I., Kalla, T., Wegert, L., Rosner, G., Müller, C., Haueisen, J., Hunold, A. Electrochemical characterisation of new textile electrodes based on a conductive silicon yarn for bioelectrical stimulation. Sci Rep 16, 8261 (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-40950-4

Contact persons: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Jens Haueisen, M. Sc. Irene Lange