A $10 optical sensor brings lab-style chemical analysis to wearable devices
Researchers at Cambridge have developed a compact optical sensor that combines laboratory-style chemical analysis with a form factor suitable for wearables. The device is reported to cost about $10, potentially making advanced sensing accessible for routine health monitoring and other applications.
In tests, the sensor identified foods, plastics, and medicines with 100% accuracy. It also demonstrated the ability to measure blood glucose, alcohol, and other health markers without invasive procedures.
The results suggest that inexpensive, portable optical sensors could support wearable devices that monitor a broader range of substances than conventional consumer wearables. The work also points toward mobile laboratory-style tools for checking the composition of everyday objects and medicines.