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3 October 2025
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Non-invasive sensor bracelet helps firefighters avoid getting dehydrated
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have unveiled a ground-breaking wearable sensor that monitors hydration levels non-invasively, offering a potential lifeline in the fight against heat-related illness. Led by Professor Nanshu Lu of the Cockrell School of Engineering, the UT Austin team developed a flexible, skin-adhering device that uses bioimpedance, a technique that measures how electrical signals pass through body tissues, to detect fluid loss.
The sensor sends a tiny electrical current through the arm and analyses how easily it travels. Since water is a strong conductor, hydrated tissue allows the current to flow freely, while dehydrated tissue resists it.
“Dehydration is a silent threat that affects millions of people every day,” said Lu. “Our wearable sensor provides a simple, effective way to monitor hydration levels in real time, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to stay healthy and perform at their best.” — Cockrell School of Engineering, UT Austin
Tested and proven
The sensor was validated through rigorous trials, including a diuretic-induced dehydration study and a 24-hour free-living test. In both cases, the sensor’s readings closely matched traditional hydration assessments like urine tests and body weight changes.
“Our experiments demonstrated that arm bioimpedance aligns closely with whole-body hydration measurements,” said Matija Jankovic, a postdoctoral researcher in Lu’s lab. — Science News Today
Designed for real-world use
The sensor is a thin ribbon-like strip that wraps around the bicep—a muscle chosen for its high water content and accessibility. Data is wirelessly transmitted to a smartphone app, allowing users to track hydration levels throughout the day.
“It’s really cool to work on the cutting edge of wearable devices,” said Hyonyoung Shin, a Ph.D. student involved in the project. — KXAN Austin
A timely innovation
Texas summers have become increasingly deadly. In 2023 alone, 334 people died from heat-related causes, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The UT Austin team hopes their sensor can help prevent such tragedies by alerting users before dehydration becomes dangerous.
Potential applications
With further development, the sensor could be integrated into broader health-monitoring platforms, offering real-time insights into hydration, heart rate, and even blood pressure.
Source: CTIF
The sensor sends a tiny electrical current through the arm and analyses how easily it travels. Since water is a strong conductor, hydrated tissue allows the current to flow freely, while dehydrated tissue resists it.
“Dehydration is a silent threat that affects millions of people every day,” said Lu. “Our wearable sensor provides a simple, effective way to monitor hydration levels in real time, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to stay healthy and perform at their best.” — Cockrell School of Engineering, UT Austin
Tested and proven
The sensor was validated through rigorous trials, including a diuretic-induced dehydration study and a 24-hour free-living test. In both cases, the sensor’s readings closely matched traditional hydration assessments like urine tests and body weight changes.
“Our experiments demonstrated that arm bioimpedance aligns closely with whole-body hydration measurements,” said Matija Jankovic, a postdoctoral researcher in Lu’s lab. — Science News Today
Designed for real-world use
The sensor is a thin ribbon-like strip that wraps around the bicep—a muscle chosen for its high water content and accessibility. Data is wirelessly transmitted to a smartphone app, allowing users to track hydration levels throughout the day.
“It’s really cool to work on the cutting edge of wearable devices,” said Hyonyoung Shin, a Ph.D. student involved in the project. — KXAN Austin
A timely innovation
Texas summers have become increasingly deadly. In 2023 alone, 334 people died from heat-related causes, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services. The UT Austin team hopes their sensor can help prevent such tragedies by alerting users before dehydration becomes dangerous.
Potential applications
- Firefighters and first responders working in extreme heat
- Athletes training in hot conditions
- Elderly individuals with reduced thirst sensation
- Outdoor workers in agriculture and construction
With further development, the sensor could be integrated into broader health-monitoring platforms, offering real-time insights into hydration, heart rate, and even blood pressure.
Source: CTIF