By: |MIT engineers have developed a breathable hydrogel that could support longer-lasting bandages, implants, cosmetic patches, contact lenses and wearable health sensors. When worn for too long, a hydrogel patch or bandage can trap moisture and sweat against the skin. To solve the problem, the researchers added a small amount of silica aerogel particles to a conventional hydrogel recipe. In tests, volunteers wore wireless electrocardiogram monitors attached with the breathable hydrogel while exercising. The material maintained a strong signal, while conventional commercial hydrogel adhesives showed significant fluctuations.