Printed Sensors for Quantifying Electrodermal Activity and Sweat Rate: A Review.

Abstract

Monitoring electrodermal activity (EDA) and sweat rate (SR) and volume hold promise for yielding neurological health insights about individuals. A combination of standard EDA monitoring with the quantitative analysis of perspired sweat volume, rate, and composition represents a promising advancement for improving the understanding and reliability of EDA signals. In this picture, exploiting printed electronics to face challenges related to bulky gold-standard setups and to achieve integration in fully wearable devices represents one of the most interesting approaches addressed by recent research. In this review, we present an overview of the principal techniques, materials, and measurement methods reported for fabricating EDA and sweat monitoring electrodes. We highlight the increasing effect of printing technologies as a key enabler for scalable, low-cost, and customizable fabrication of flexible sensors suited for on-skin applications. These approaches not only support mass production but also enhance adaptability and comfort in wearable formats. Overall, the review emphasizes how printed technologies significantly improve physiological signal quality and open new opportunities for continuous, non-invasive, and personalized health monitoring.