A simple but effective sensor for monitoring the respiration rate of individuals has been created. Taking advantage of the hygroscopic character of ordinary paper,scientists at Harvard University enjoy developed an electrical sensor to detect the periodic changes of humidity by breathing in and out. As they report in the journal Angewandte Chemie, the respiration data can be transmitted to and collected by nearby smartphones or tablet computers for further processing, and storage,or transmittance to practical therapists. A simple face mask carrying the sensor system and worn in hospital wards may thus save lives.
Source: phys.org