Abstract: The initial use of ECG recordings involved opaque carbon electrodes. With the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), carbon fiber electrodes were introduced to reduce image distortion while simultaneously recording ECG and thoracic impedance. Advances in wearable technology have driven the development of novel ECG electrodes based on textile substrates, which combine nanomaterials and wireless systems to achieve high-quality signal acquisition. The application of new materials, such as gecko-inspired conductive dry adhesives and 3D-printed electrodes, has made ECG monitoring more reliable in various environments. Additionally, innovative electrode technologies, such as stretchable conductive fabrics, electrogel electrodes, hydrogel electrodes, fabric microneedle electrodes, and polymer conductive adhesives , have begun to emerge.
Selecting suitable conductive materials is crucial in the preparation of fabric electrodes. These materials mainly include conductive fibers, metal nanowires, carbon-based materials, conductive polymers, and conductive inks. Conductive fibers offer flexibility, metal nanowires provide high conductivity, carbon-based materials combine lightness with strength, conductive polymers are easy to process, and conductive inks are ideal for printing complex patterns. By employing techniques such as knitting, weaving, embroidery, and electrospinning, various high-conductivity fabric electrodes can be designed. Woven fabrics offer high strength and stability, making them suitable for creating structurally demanding conductive fabrics. Knitted fabrics have good elasticity and breathability, making them ideal for flexible and close-fitting conductive fabrics. Embroidered fabrics allow for the design of intricate electrode patterns, while nonwoven fabrics are suitable for producing soft and breathable conductive fabrics.
Additionally, physical and chemical modifications can enhance conductivity, waterproofing, and wear resistance. Methods such as in-situ polymerization, chemical plating, electroplating, surface spraying, and plasma modification can improve the conductivity and stability of fabrics. Moreover, fabric electrodes must meet testing standards for comfort, breathability, durability, waterproofness and sweat resistance to ensure effective transmission of cardiac signals, guaranteeing long-term use, and maintaining good conductivity and structural integrity even after multiple washings and prolonged use.
Research advancements in fabric ECG electrodes include ECG sensor-based electronic textiles, ECG flexible electronic system design, self-powered wearable ECG, and ECG algorithm optimization. ECG sensor-based electronic textiles can integrate various sensors, such as ECG, body temperature, and motion sensors, enabling the simultaneous monitoring of multiple physiological parameters and providing more comprehensive health monitoring data. ECG flexible electronic systems use technologies such as flexible circuits and batteries, making the entire system lighter and more conforming to the body's curves, providing a more comfortable wearing experience. Self-powered wearable ECG systems include energy harvesting, energy management, and real-time ECG monitoring. The ECG algorithm is optimized for the characteristics of wearable devices to improve the accuracy of ECG signal acquisition and data processing efficiency, reduce noise and artifacts, and improve the reliability and accuracy of ECG monitoring. The development of fabric ECG electrodes has not only improved the portability and comfort of ECG monitoring but also brought new possibilities for health monitoring and medical diagnostics.

Key words: fabric electrodes, e-textiles, ECG monitoring, smart wearable

摘要： 织物基可穿戴心电电极极大地提升了心脏监测的便捷性和精度，也为健康监测和医疗诊断带来了新的可能性。回顾了可穿戴织物心电电极的发展历程，讨论了织物导电材料的选择和织物电极的测试标准，包括舒适性、透气性、耐用性和防水防汗性能等；根据织物的组织结构，介绍了可穿戴心电监测中常见织物的制备方法以及改性策略；探讨了织物电极的通用设计方案及其它设计方案。通过心电图(ECG)传感电子纺织品、ECG柔性电子系统的设计、自供能可穿戴ECG以及ECG算法优化等方面对织物心电监测技术的研究进展进行了总结；最后提出了主要面临的挑战和未来展望，旨在为今后的研究和实际应用提供参考。

关键词: 织物电极, 电子纺织品, 心电监测, 智能可穿戴