Real-time sweat analysis: Concept and development of an autonomous wearable micro-fluidic platform

Abstract In this work the development of an autonomous, robust and wearable micro-fluidic platform capable of performing on-line analysis of pH in sweat is discussed. Through the means of an optical detection system based on a surface mount light emitting diode (smLED) and a photodiode as a detector, a wearable system was achieved in which real- time monitoring of sweat pH can be performed during sport activity. We show how through systems engineering, integrating miniaturised electrical components, and by improving the micro-fluidic chip characteristics, the wearability, reliability and performance of a sweat analysis platform has been significantly improved.