Evaluating the Longevity of Silicon Integrated Circuits for Neural Implants
Author Information
Author(s): Nanbakhsh Kambiz, Shah Idil Ahmad, Lamont Callum, Dücső Csaba, Akgun Ömer Can, Horváth Domonkos, Tóth Kinga, Meszéna Domokos, Ulbert István, Mazza Federico, Constandinou Timothy G., Serdijn Wouter, Vanhoestenberghe Anne, Donaldson Nick, Giagka Vasiliki
Primary Institution: Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands
Hypothesis
Can polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) effectively enhance the longevity of silicon integrated circuits (ICs) when exposed to physiological environments?
Conclusion
The study found that PDMS-coated regions of silicon ICs showed limited degradation over 12 months, suggesting that PDMS can enhance the longevity of implantable ICs.
Supporting Evidence
- ICs showed stable electrical performance even when exposed to physiological fluids.
- PDMS-coated regions demonstrated limited degradation compared to bare die regions.
- Guidelines were proposed to enhance the longevity of implantable ICs.
Takeaway
Silicon chips used in brain implants can last a long time if they are covered with a special rubbery material called PDMS, which helps protect them from damage.
Methodology
The electrical and material performance of ICs was evaluated through one-year accelerated in vitro and in vivo studies, comparing bare die and PDMS-coated regions.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on two foundries, and results may not generalize to all silicon ICs.
Participant Demographics
Rats were used for the in vivo study, with a total of 12 ICs implanted.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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