PDMS electrodes for recording and stimulation

Abstract

The usability of flexible electrodes in moving environment is limited due to different mechanical characteristics of their metallic and polymeric components. To achieve structure compatible electrodes, all used materials need to have similar Young’s moduli as the surrounding tissue. This paper describes the characterization of macroscopic as well as miniaturized electrodes entirely made out of modified silicone (PDMS). Electrochemical, mechanical, biological, optical, and applicative methods were used. It could be shown, that PDMS electrodes are capable to be used for recording electrocardiograms with similar form and amplitude as with standard electrodes.

Keywords

• cardiomyocytes
• characterization
• charge injection capacity
• electrocardiogram
• impedance
• silicone electrodes
• structure compatibility
• young’s moduli