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UV Laser-Induced Carbon Microelectrode Arrays for Neuronal Recordings
Fulvia Del Duca1,2, Koji Sakai2,3, Beatrice De Chiara1
1Neuroelectronics, Munich Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Electrical Engineering, School of Computation, Information and Technology, Technical University of Munich, Hans-Piloty-Str. 1, 85748, Garching, Germany.
Advanced Healthcare Materials
|August 20, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed novel carbon electrodes using laser-induced carbonization of parylene-C polymer. These biocompatible electrodes enable stable, long-term electrophysiological recordings and stimulation for neuroelectronic devices.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Bioelectronics
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Polymeric materials are crucial for flexible bioelectronic devices.
- Laser-induced carbonization offers a rapid method for creating conductive carbon structures from polymers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize electrodes fabricated via ultraviolet (UV) laser-induced carbonization of parylene-C.
- To assess the biocompatibility and performance of these electrodes for neuroelectronic applications.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of electrodes by UV laser carbonization of parylene-C over a metallization layer.
- Optimization of laser parameters for electrode performance.
- In vitro testing with primary neuronal cultures, including electrophysiological recordings and stimulation.
Main Results:
- Successful fabrication of conductive carbon electrodes in a one-step process.
- Demonstrated biocompatibility and good neuronal conformability on carbon structures.
- Stable electrophysiological recordings and stimulation over 4 weeks in culture.
Conclusions:
- Laser-induced carbon electrodes from parylene-C provide a rapid and precise fabrication protocol.
- These electrodes are suitable for bioelectronic and neuroelectronic devices, enabling stable long-term recordings.
- The technique offers a versatile approach for creating carbon-based sensors for neural interfaces.
