CORROSION BEHAVIOR OF IMPLANTABLE SILVER-CORED CONDUCTING CABLES IN SALINE SOLUTION

摘要

Neuroprostheses significantly enhance the independence of people with disabilities by restoring movement and function. A Networked Neuroprosthetic System (NNPS) that electrically stimulates nerve and muscle to provide functional enhancements is being developed. Due to good mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and high electrical conductivity, MP35N alloy wire with a silver core is used for implantable cables, lead wires and interconnects of the networked system. This study investigates the corrosion behavior of silver-cored conducting wires and cables in saline solution utilizing electrochemical methods, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS). An overall objective for subsequent work is to determine the likelihood and extent of silver release in the body should the silver core be exposed.