Enhanced Piezoresistive Cryogel: MWCNT Nanocomposite-Based Wearable Sensors for Real-Time Human Gait and Exercise Monitoring

The piezoresistive properties of the modified cryogels were studied. The pressure sensitivity of the cryogel:MWCNT (CG:MWCNT) sensors for different concentrations of MWCNTs are studied. FTIR characterization confirms the formation of CG and CG:MWCNT nanocomposites. Porosity was optimized to enhance the conductivity of the nanocomposite by studying various concentrations. The highly porous structure and the elastic nature of the CG:MWCNT sensors resulted in a change in the electrical percolation even for subtle pressure application, and a linear change in pressure was observed up to 700 kPa. The minimum and maximum pressures detected were 0.4 and 700 kPa, respectively. Electromechanical tests confirm high responsive time and no effect of pore size after stability test, which makes the prepared sensor more span of usage in healthcare conditions. Further, a cryogel:MWCNT wearable wireless sensor module was developed, and the gait signals were acquired wirelessly. The prepared sensor system is able to differentiate between normal, fast, and slow gaits. FFT analysis has been performed to understand the repeatability of signals. Overall, the study emphasizes the potential of the developed sensor system in assisting healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals in assessing gait characteristics and tracking exercise performance.