High-performance Flexible Microelectrode Array with PEDOT:PSS Coated 3D Micro-cones for Electromyographic Recording

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2022 Jul:2022:5111-5114. doi: 10.1109/EMBC48229.2022.9871052.

Abstract

High signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) electromyography (EMG) recordings are essential for identifying and analyzing single motor unit activity. While high-density electrodes allow for greater spatial resolution, the smaller electrode area translates to a higher impedance and lower SNR. In this study, we developed an implantable and flexible 3D microelectrode array (MEA) with low impedance that enables high-quality EMG recording. With polyimide micro-cones realized by standard photolithography process and PEDOT:PSS coating, this design can increase effective surface area by up to 250% and significantly improve electrical performance for electrode sites with various geometric surface areas, where the electrode impedance is at most improved by 99.3%. Acute EMG activity from mice was recorded by implanting the electrodes in vivo, and we were able to detect multiple individual motor units simultaneously and with high resolution ([Formula: see text]). The charge storage capacity was measured to be 34.2 mC/cm2, indicating suitability of the electrodes for stimulation applications as well.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic*
  • Electric Impedance
  • Mice
  • Microelectrodes
  • Polymers*

Substances

  • Bridged Bicyclo Compounds, Heterocyclic
  • Polymers
  • poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene)