bioElektron – biodegradable electronics for active implants

Aims of the project

Electronic components that are completely broken down in a biological environment after a pre-defined operating life open up novel applications as well as ways for reducing their ecological footprint. A novel application area for these innovative electronic components for example is in the field of active medical implants that after expiration of their operating life are resorbed by tissue, thereby sparing the patient a second surgical intervention.

The Fraunhofer Gesellschaft e. V. is now funding the “bioElektron – Biodegradable Electronics for Active Implants" project through its in-house program (funding No. MAVO B31 301). The goal of the project is the development of essential components for biodegradable electronic parts that can be employed for example in an implant.

This includes in particular

  • biodegradable conductor structures
  • biodegradable electrodes for collecting electrical signals or delivering electrical stimulation
  • biodegradable thin-film transistors and circuitry
  • biodegradable barrier coatings as moisture and gas barriers, and electrical insulation layers

These elements will be monolithically integrated into a flexible thin-film device.

Schematic illustration of scenarios for the potential use of biodegradable active implants. left: Use in pre-surgical epilepsy diagnostics. right: use in abdominal surgery.

Funded within the in-house program of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

Funded by:
Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft e.V.
Funding reference: MAVO 831301