(81g) Characterization of a Nanocomposite Sweat Lactate Sensor for Continuous Monitoring on High-Level Athletes

Presently, there is no established method for noninvasive and continuous monitoring of lactate levels during exercise. This is despite its significance in causing cramping, fatigue, and diminished performance in athletes due to anaerobic glucose metabolism. This study aimed to develop a fabric-based nanocomposite sensor capable of measuring sweat lactate levels during physical activity. The sensor fabrication involved treating non-woven nylon fabric with an aqueous dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) functionalized with carboxylic acid groups. The sensor's active layer was synthesized using pyrrole and lactate oxidase. Characterization of MWCNT dispersion quality and particle size utilized UV-vis spectroscopy and Zetasizer analysis. Electrochemical properties were assessed through cyclic voltammetry of the sensor's response to synthetic sweat solutions containing lactate. Further testing involved analyzing sensor responses to spiked and synthetic sweat solutions containing common interferents like glucose, potassium, calcium, and sodium. Initial benchtop tests confirmed the sensor's ability to detect physiologically relevant levels of sweat lactate. Future evaluations will involve assessing the sensor's accuracy during on-body cycling trials.