RXN Wristband by Ember.bio — Battery-Free Wearable Alcohol Biosensor
The RXN wristband is the world's first battery-free wearable alcohol biosensor. Developed by Ember.bio, it uses a naturally-produced enzyme to detect ethanol — the alcohol found in beer, wine, and spirits — and glows when the wearer is too drunk to drive.
How the alcohol biosensor works
The RXN wristband is an enzyme-based ethanol biosensor. It non-invasively estimates blood alcohol content (BAC) using biological rather than electronic components, so it needs no batteries. The enzymes are produced through a fermentation-based bioprocess, and every wristband is fabricated from natural, sustainable, 100% biodegradable materials.
Specifications
- Battery-free — no electronics required
- Glows for up to 8 hours after activation
- Shelf life up to 10 days at room temperature
- 100% biodegradable, single-use
Licensing & OEM partnerships
Ember.bio's wearable alcohol-biosensing platform is available for licensing and OEM development partnerships with wearable, smartwatch, consumer-electronics, and automotive-safety manufacturers. To discuss development or integration, contact hello@ember.bio.
Frequently asked questions
Seriously… does this thing work?
Yes! Since we use biological (rather than electronic) components in the design the RXN wristband doesn't need batteries. Additionally, the Ember team has confirmed through (highly enjoyable!) product testing that the RXN wristband works.
What's the shelf-life?
Up to 10 days at room temperature.
How long does it glow?
Up to 8 hours after activation.
What about safety?
We've spoken with hundreds of potential users throughout our design process. We think we've identified and addressed the most common safety concerns through industrial design solutions that will be implemented in the final version of the RXN wristband: No, it won't hurt you! The design of the RXN wristband intentionally discourages race-to-get-drunk drinking games by turning on or off and will not glow brighter, nor indicate a change in any way, in response to increased alcohol use. The final industrial design will allow users to discreetly know they are intoxicated without publicly broadcasting it to everyone around.