Abstract
Multi electrode arrays (MEA) have been exploited in different electrophysiological applications. In neurological applications, MEAs are the vital interfaces between neurons and the electronic circuits with dual role; transmitting electric signal to the neurons and converting neural activity to the electric signal. Since the performance of the electrodes has a direct effect on the quality of the recorded neuronal signal, as well as the stimulation, the true choice of electrode material for MEA is crucial. Gold is one of the best candidates for fabrication of MEAs due to its high electrical conductivity, biocompatibility and good chemical stability. However, noble metals such as gold do not adhere well to the glass substrate. Consequently while exposing to the water, gold films are damaged, which impose limitations in the exploiting of gold thin films as the electrode. In this paper, a simple and cost effective method for the fabrication of gold electrode arrays is proposed. Using various mechanical (adhesion test and scratch strength), morphological (AFM and SEM) and electrochemical methods, the fabricated electrodes are characterized. The results show that the fabricated electrode arrays have significantly high scratch strength and stability within the aqueous medium. In addition, the electrical properties of the electrodes have been improved. The proposed electrodes have the potential to be exploited in other applications including electronics, electrochemistry, and biosensors.
Highlights
Multi electrode arrays (MEA) have been used in vitro to stimulate the cells and record the extracellular activity of single cells and electrogenic cellular networks[4,5] and thin tissue sections such as hippocampus[6,7,8,9] and to treat or improve damaged brain tissues or peripheral nerves
On the other hand noble metals such as gold and silver do not adhere well to the glass substrate and films are damaged while exposed to the water which restricts its application[34]
The most common way is to deposit a thin layer of titanium or chromium on the substrate which improves the adhesion of gold to the substrate[34,35]
Summary
MEAs have been used in vitro to stimulate the cells and record the extracellular activity of single cells and electrogenic cellular networks[4,5] and thin tissue sections such as hippocampus[6,7,8,9] and to treat or improve damaged brain tissues or peripheral nerves. MEAs are useful tools for the study of electrogenic cells[10,11,12] These electrodes consist of a number of arrays that lie next to each other on a flat bed. MEAs can detect the electrical signals of cells from multiple points Another advantage of this method is the possibility of simultaneous recording and stimulation, so that the array can be used to stimulate the electrical system and at the same time recording. The structure of the electrode consists of three main parts: the exposed electrodes, the paths and the connection pads In this regard three layers of substrate, conductive layer and insulation layer are required. Obtaining a stable electrode array for long-term function without change in the properties of the electrode is another challenge facing this area
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