Could everyday noise-canceling headphones soon double as breathalyzers? A team from Tokyo Medical and Dental University has pioneered this innovative approach by detecting alcohol vapors from ear skin.
Traditional breathalyzers require blowing steadily for several seconds, but some evade or struggle with them. Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University, publishing in Scientific Reports on June 10, 2021, developed a novel device that sidesteps this. This skin-based blood alcohol tester offers a discreet alternative for legal compliance checks.
Initially exploring palm measurements, the team focused on ears for their ample surface area and minimal sweat glands, which could otherwise skew results from sweat-borne alcohol variations.
The prototype resembles standard noise-canceling headphones, enhanced with a fine airflow system. Air passes over the ear, capturing ethanol vapors detected by a precise sensor. Three volunteers wore the device for two hours while drinking, cross-checked against conventional breathalyzers.
Results matched breath tests closely, with a 13-minute delay. Lead author Koji Toma notes that rapid screenings, like roadside checks, require just 30 seconds of wear.
The team now eyes broader medical applications, such as continuous monitoring of blood biomarkers. For instance, acetone levels could track fat burn during exercise.
