Neuroelectrodes act as direct interfaces to the brain or nerves. To protect this sensitive tissue as much as possible, the materials cannot be too thick or stiff. At the same time it has to be ensured that the products stand up to a certain amount of strain in the body.
CorTec opted for a zwickiLine testing machine (Fmax 2.5 kN) to perform the testing. Highly sensitive silicone tubing used to coat the electrodes and connections have to be tested in the tensile direction. Wires made of biocompatible metals such as gold, platinum-iridium and coated copper (70µm - 500 µm) must also be tested in the tensile direction. The requirements for both scenarios included the ability to hold the specimens safely and reliably without causing any damage.
Pneumatic grips (200 N) with aluminum convex/Vulkollan jaw inserts were used to hold the silicone tubing. To ensure secure fastening of the very thin wires, screw grips with ceramic inserts were used.