Graphene Tattoos: Science, Application, and Significance - UPSC Notes | Testbook.com

Understanding Graphene Tattoos

Image source: BBC

• A "Graphene Tattoo" is essentially an innovative application of graphene, a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern.
• The tattoo comprises a transparent layer of graphene nestled between sheets of flexible silicone and an ultra-thin polymer.
• The device draws power from a source via a gold tape that links the graphene to the electrical wires.

Application of Graphene Tattoo:

• The graphene patch mimics a traditional tattoo in terms of its transparency, non-invasiveness, and ease of use.
• It offers a potential solution for people suffering from cardiac arrhythmias, a condition that disrupts the heart’s rhythm, as it can treat their irregular heartbeats simultaneously.

Operation of Graphene Tattoos

• Despite its paper-thin structure, the graphene tattoo implant functions similarly to a traditional pacemaker.
• The "tattoo" is equipped with sensors capable of detecting the electrical signals produced by the heart.
• The data collected by the graphene 'tattoo' can be wirelessly transmitted to a smartphone app, allowing both patients and doctors to monitor heart health remotely.

Importance of Graphene Tattoos:

• The development of graphene electronic tattoos (GETs) posed numerous challenges, prompting researchers to explore innovative strategies for pacemaker replacements.
• Scientists achieved a major breakthrough after devising a unique method to encapsulate the graphene tattoo and attach it to the surface of a beating heart.
• Remarkably, the combined thickness of all layers in the implant is less than 100 microns, making it the thinnest known cardiac implant.