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Characterization of Degradation Mechanisms in Neural Recording Electrodes*

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 March 2011

Jennifer M. Anton
Affiliation:
Materials Reliability Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 325 Broadway, MS 853, Boulder, CO, 80305
Stephanie A. Hooker
Affiliation:
Materials Reliability Division, National Institute of Standards and Technology, 325 Broadway, MS 853, Boulder, CO, 80305
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Extract

Understanding the nature of specific neural activity is essential to the progression of research in the field of brain disorders and diseases, as well as neuroprosthetics. Microelectrodes are the primary measurement devices used to transduce neural activity into electrical signals to help neuroscientists study dynamic brain function. Advances in signal processing and packaging currently allow neural recording for periods as long as a year by use of chronically implanted electrodes in freely behaving animals. Stability of the electrode impedance is required for optimum signal recording over the length of the recording interval. While electrode–tissue interaction plays a major role in the quality of the recorded signal, delamination or degradation of the dielectric coating also interferes with signal recording. Therefore, to improve the signal recording process, it is useful to understand how the electrode design and component materials affect the signal over the course of time.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2007

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Footnotes

*

Contribution of the U.S. Department of Commerce; not subject to copyright in the U.S.A.

References

* Contribution of the U.S. Department of Commerce; not subject to copyright in the U.S.A.