Bioelectronics, such as implantable health monitors or devices that stimulate brain cells, are not as soft as the surrounding tissues due to their metal electronic circuits. A team of scientists has developed a soft polymer hydrogel that can conduct electricity as well as metal can. As the material is both flexible and soft, it is more compatible with sensitive tissues. This finding has the potential for a large number of applications, for example, in biocompatible sensors and in wound healing.
The scientists coated a porous hydrogel with the conductive polymer polypyrrole, using oxidative chemical vapor deposition. They applied an ultrathin layer to ensure that the gel would remain soft and stretchable. Tests showed that the coated gel was compatible with neural cells, making it a promising platform for soft, implantable, and biocompatible bioelectronics.
The conductive gel could be used in neural implants. Its high sensitivity and flexibility make this gel ideal for continuous monitoring of pressure, pulse, or muscle activity in smart health devices. As the gel is biocompatible and mimics the softness of tissues, it can also serve as a scaffold that supports cell growth and healing in damaged organs or nerves.
The technology could help bridge the gap between biology and electronics, leading to safer, longer-lasting, and more natural human-machine interfaces.
For more information, visit here .
