Conformal PEDOT:PSS Microelectrode Arrays with Controllable Doping Level and High Structural Order for...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Materials Science
• Bioengineering

Background:

• Flexible microelectrode arrays (MEAs) are crucial for brain activity monitoring.
• Existing MEAs face limitations in mechanical flexibility and electrochemical performance.
• Conformal neural interfaces require advanced materials and fabrication techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a fabrication method for conformal microelectrode arrays (MEAs).
• To enhance the mechanical and electrochemical properties of flexible MEAs.
• To improve the performance of neural recording devices.

Main Methods:

• A multistep galvanostatic approach was employed for fabricating MEAs.
• PEDOT:PSS was used to modify the MEAs, improving interface conformability.
• Electrochemical parameters were optimized for uniform PEDOT:PSS polymerization.

Main Results:

• Uniform PEDOT:PSS layers with controlled doping and high structural order were achieved.
• The modified MEAs exhibited high electrical conductivity and low impedance.
• Flexible 16-channel MEAs successfully recorded electrocorticogram signals in a rat model.

Conclusions:

• The study presents an efficient method for fabricating high-performance flexible MEAs.
• PEDOT:PSS modification significantly enhances bioelectric conductivity and conformability.
• These advanced MEAs show potential for next-generation conformal neural interfaces.