Skin-inspired gradient electrode supports extended EEG recording during movement
Published in Brain Activity, Brain/Neurology, Journals, Noninvasive, Tools.
Published November 1, 2026.
A study published in npj Flexible Electronics on October 31 describes a hydrogel electrode designed to keep noninvasive brain–computer interfaces working during extended wear and movement.
Jiang and colleagues created a gradual change in stiffness: a soft surface contacts the scalp, while a firmer region connects to the electronics. A graded pore structure supports sustained electrolyte release. The fabrication process uses a temperature gradient to produce uneven crosslinking within the hydrogel.
Under the tested conditions, the authors report stable EEG recordings for more than eight hours during free movement and more than fourteen hours at rest, with typing accuracy above 94%. These figures describe the study’s interface tasks, rather than unrestricted thought reading or a general communication guarantee.
The design addresses the practical problem of mechanical mismatch between electrodes and scalp. Broader testing across users, repeated wear and everyday conditions is needed before drawing conclusions about routine clinical use. The authors report no competing interests. This peer-reviewed accepted article remains subject to editorial changes.
Source: Jiang et al., npj Flexible Electronics, October 31, 2026.