Dual-Mode Contact Lens for Passive Electromagnetic Shielding and Active Electroretinogram Detection

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmic medical devices
• Nanomaterials science
• Biomedical engineering

Background:

• Smart contact lenses (SCLs) are evolving beyond vision correction to incorporate advanced functionalities.
• Integrating passive functions like electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding with active functions such as electroretinogram (ERG) monitoring in SCLs is an underexplored area.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize dual-mode contact lenses (DMCLs) capable of both EMI shielding and ERG recording.
• To assess the biocompatibility and long-term stability of the developed DMCLs for ocular applications.

Main Methods:

• Sequential spray-coating of silver nanowires (AgNWs) and MXene onto commercial contact lenses.
• Characterization of EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) and material stability in contact lens care solution.
• Evaluation of biocompatibility through in vivo rabbit wear tests.
• Validation of ERG recording capabilities and signal fidelity in animal models.

Main Results:

• DMCLs achieved an EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) greater than 20 dB.
• The MXene layer stabilized the AgNW conductive network, maintaining performance after one month of immersion.
• Biocompatible coatings allowed for safe 8-hour wear without ocular irritation.
• In vivo rabbit studies successfully recorded six standard ERG waveforms with preserved signal fidelity for over a week.

Conclusions:

• The developed DMCLs successfully integrate passive EMI shielding and active ERG monitoring into a single ocular device.
• This dual-functionality establishes a new platform for advanced, SCL-driven healthcare solutions.
• DMCLs represent a significant advancement in multifunctional smart contact lens technology.