Test setup and electrodes for soft biodegradable conducting composites

At ECTM, we are working on new soft biodegradable materials with tailored electrical properties, and their integration into organ-on-chips, implantable sensors and robotic manipulators for medical applications. These functionalized materials are used as electrical conductors and electrodes for sensing and stimulating applications. The devices, protected by a packaging being itself biodegradable, are operational for a predefined period of time, and then naturally disintegrating in a way that is not harmful to the surrounding cells and tissues.

In this project, a new approach to making these stretchable biodegradable electrodes will be investigated, using a spark nanoparticle generator. Conductive nanoparticles will be combined with stretchable biodegradable elastomers synthesized in the MEMs lab.

A platform used to apply a periodical mechanical stretch to the substrates during deposition of the nanoparticles will also be developed. This platform will allow for control and measurement of the strain and stress applied to the stretchable substrate. In addition, this platform will be compatible with the spark setup and scanning electron microscope, both operating in vacuum.

The newly developed soft biodegradable conducting composite will be integrated as organ-on-chip electrode and pressure sensor, with the objective to demonstrate its performances as a conductor and electrode material.

Assignment

• An extensive review of the state-of-the-art in soft biodegradable conducting materials;
• Development of an experimental setup for mechanical stretching and stress/strain measurements;
• Conception of microfabrication methods and material choices;
• Fabrication of biodegradable conductors;
• Mechanical and electrical characterization;
• Reporting.

Requirements

You are an ambitious hands-on master student from Microelectronics, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Applied Sciences. Experience with experimental setup development and microfabrication is preferred. You have good communication skills in English, you are independent and also a team player.

If you are eager to work in a motivating atmosphere with highly skilled colleagues, then send us your CV!

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Last modified: 2022-04-13