A photo-thermal-electrical converter based on carbon nanotubes for bioelectronic applications

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There is currently substantial interest in creating bioelectronic devices that can be implanted in and attached to humans for sensing and control of organs and internal systems in order to prolong and improve the quality of life. In the present study , we demonstrate that 1) a well-dispersed single-walled CNT/poly(dimethylsiloxane) (SWNT-PDMS) composite can be formed, and a novel photo-thermal-electrical (PTE) converter fabricated with a CNT polymer composite can effectively convert the photothermal energy of CNTs into electricity; 2) the PTE converter can supply electrical power for stimulation of electrical activity in physiological tissues; and 3) the PTE converter was effective in the body of a rat. These results dramatically extend the concept of a PTE converter into new areas and applications.