Biodegradable electronics have revolutionized the field of medical devices by allowing implants to safely degrade into materials that are absorbed by the body after they serve their purpose. The ability to control the dissolve rate of these devices is crucial to ensure that they do not degrade too quickly, rendering them ineffective. Research conducted by Huanyu Cheng and his team at Penn State has focused on experimenting with dissolvable elements, such as inorganic fillers and polymers, to encapsulate biodegradable electronics and regulate their degradation rate.
According to Ankan Dutta, the co-first author of the study, encapsulating a biodegradable device using zinc oxide- or silicon dioxide-based fillers can significantly slow down the degradation process. By using modeling software, Dutta determined that coating the device in silicon dioxide flakes was the most effective method to control the degradation rate. Additionally, he found that the aspect ratio of the encapsulation, which refers to the ratio of width to thickness, played a crucial role in predicting the onset of degradation of the device. Dutta emphasized that by adjusting the aspect ratio, the types of materials used, and the quantity of fillers, researchers can fine-tune the rate at which a device degrades inside the body.
The team’s research has led to the development of what they refer to as “on demand transient electronics,” where the degradation rate of an implant can be passively controlled based on its materials. This innovative approach offers significant advantages over active degradation methods that rely on third-party systems like ultrasound or light technology to trigger the breakdown of the device. Dutta highlighted that devices that passively degrade on their own are not only cost-effective but also more practical for use in clinical settings.
Collaborative Efforts
Collaborators at Korea University, led by Suk-Won Hwang, utilized Dutta’s simulations to fabricate a prototype of a biodegradable implant. Hwang emphasized that a high-efficiency encapsulation approach can extend the functional lifetime of electronic devices, making them more practical for large-scale production without requiring additional treatments. The composite solution developed by the team offers enhanced practical applicability for biodegradable electronics.
The ability to control the dissolve rate of biodegradable electronics is essential for ensuring the effectiveness and longevity of medical implants. Through innovative encapsulation strategies and advanced modeling techniques, researchers are paving the way for the development of biodegradable devices that can safely degrade in the body without the need for secondary surgeries. The collaboration between research teams like Cheng’s at Penn State and Hwang’s at Korea University demonstrates the potential for significant advancements in biodegradable electronics that can improve patient care and medical outcomes in the future.
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