Comparison of Different Circuit Topology for Generation of PWM Signal with High Power for Electroporation

Abstract

Electroporation refers to a microbiological method which involves application of electric field to cells for ameliorating the cell membranes permeability, allowing electrode arrays, drugs and chemicals to be inserted into the cells. This process requires HV pulses or signals for creating pores within the cell membrane. As these signals are less effective, nowadays, Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals are extensively employed for electroporation. These signals can be exploited for constructing coveted output voltage in power amplifiers and are found to be useful for regulating power devices. Therefore, generation of top quality PWM signals is essential for achieving superior electroporation performance. Different PWM methods are available and circuit topologies employed for generating these waveforms are also different. This paper thus provides an exploratory study of distinct circuit topologies exploited for generating PWM waveforms. The review paper also provides the significance of PWM signals for electroporation. It reviews the existing circuit topologies exploited for PWM signal generation and other related studies. It also presents a circuit for PWM waveform generation. The paper then provides the substantial future directions pertaining to the study. This review article mainly educates the reader regarding existing circuit topologies for PWM signal generation, their characteristics and improvements required for developing better topologies satisfying the requisites of modern applications.