Scientists create biodegradable electrode patches that can self generate electricity

Scientists from the University of Wisconsin Madison recently introduced self powered, biodegradable electrical stimulation patches in an article published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). Previous studies have shown that electrical stimulation can aid in wound healing. However, in the process of fracture treatment, it is currently necessary to implant externally powered electrodes into the wound site through surgery. After the bone heals, it needs to be removed through surgery.

In order to seek a simpler and less invasive alternative, a research team led by Professor Xudong Wang from the university has developed a biodegradable patch electrode implant.

After placing this "fracture electrical stimulation device" (FED) implant in the desired area through surgery, the self powered patch electrode that has successfully retired can be safely absorbed by the human body.

The basic part of the patch is made of FDA approved biocompatible polymer material, with a thin film friction nanogenerator connected to two electrodes. The latter can convert the mechanical energy generated by body movement into electric current, which is very similar to the way we generate static charges when wearing socks and rubbing against carpets.

During laboratory testing, the device allowed rats with tibial fractures to recover within six weeks, significantly faster than the control group without special treatment. During this period, the rats remained relatively active, so the nanofriction generator was able to maintain a voltage of about 4V at all times.

However, in the treatment of humans, it is usually necessary to fix the fracture site. Professor Xudong Wang pointed out that in the future, FED devices can be considered to respond to other types of internal mechanical sources, such as changes in blood pressure.

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