Vanadium MCV: E-Skin

Prosthetic limbs are artificial replacements for a part of the human body such as an arm or a leg. While prosthetic limbs might seem like a relatively new technology, the use of prosthetic limbs can be traced back to ancient civilization. In 2000, archaeologists uncovered evidence of a 3000 year old prosthetic toe made of wood and leather that was attached to the mummified body of an Egyptian noblewoman. While initially made solely of wood, metal and leather, the key materials involved in the making of prosthetic limbs have evolved greatly as our technology has progressed.
Today, scientists have made prosthetic limbs more advanced and lifelike than ever before. Some recent breakthroughs in artificial limbs include creating limbs that are able to lift, grab, and contort in ways similar to the original living limb. These limbs allow the user to control the prosthetic limb through microprocessors and microscopic transistors planted inside the limb. Scientists have also greatly increased the comfort and fit of prosthetic limbs. Polymers have been created that are durable yet comfortable, and act as a layer of fat between the living limb and the artificial one. These polymers absorb shocks and provide a better snug fit for the user.
One of the most exciting possibilities in the field of prosthetics is E-Skin, short for electronic skin. This is the name given to a variety of "skins" for prosthetics currently under development. E-skin is made out of polymers such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) with an elastic, semiconducting polymer which scientists call an EMCP (elastic micro structured conducting polymer). This skin will be able to sense touch by responding to stimulation with electrical impulses. It transmits the electronic impulses through surgically implanted electrodes into the nerve endings and up into the human brain. The implanted electrodes stimulate the brain, causing the user to feel the sensation of touch, which most amputees say is the thing that is most unnatural about an artificial limb. There are still issues to be dealt with before E-Skin can be a commonplace resource, such as cost, durability, and thermal expansion and contraction. However, E-Skin is a material that is on the horizon of possibility in the medical field, and will soon be available as a way to improve the quality of life of amputees.

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