Soft and Stretchable Neural Electrodes Based on Gold Nanowire Composites

Two-way communication between electronics and neural tissue is key for advancing diagnosis and therapies for neurological diseases and disorders. Establishing such neural interfaces is a major challenge, as the tissue response to implants can have a detrimental effect on the signal quality and functionality of the implant. Matching of the mechanical properties of the electronic implant to the soft interfaced tissue can reduce the tissue response and improve the long-term performance of the device. This requires soft and stretchable conductors, which typically are composed of elastomer/hydrogels and conductive fillers. However, the tough materials requirements on biomedical implants, including material chemistry, mechanical and electromechanical properties, and long-term stability, disqualifies most of the developed stretchable electronic materials for such applications. Here I will present our efforts in developing inert soft neural electrodes based on stretchable gold nanowire composites, covering aspects ranging from synthesis and processing to devices and applications.<br/>www.liu.se/en/research/soft-electronics