Huanyu “Larry” Cheng has developed a groundbreaking superhydrophobic biosensor capable of measuring “insensible” sweat—vaporized water loss from the skin—throughout wearables this process was previously challenging. This innovative sensor offers continuous monitoring, aiding evaluations of body thermoregulation, skin health, disease conditions, and nervous system activity. Traditional wearable sensors focus on “sensible” sweat, which is perceivable during intense exercise, while insensible sweat is a much lower rate of water loss during rest or low-intensity activities, making it difficult to measure. Cheng’s sensor features a superabsorbent hydrogel composite between two superhydrophobic textile layers, allowing for the permeation of sweat vapor while preventing interference from external water droplets.
Wearable monitoring of insensible sweat could be beneficial for conditions like eczema and anxiety, and the sensor’s design facilitates wireless communication for real-time tracking across different body regions. Cheng’s proof-of-concept tests on human subjects demonstrate its potential in assessing the body’s thermal comfort and skin barrier functions, making it a promising tool for smart healthcare and personalized medicine. His research has received funding from multiple reputable institutions, including the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.
