Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
+V
0V
Dexamethasone
Anion
Cation
CE Counter electrode
WE Working electrode
FIGURE 16.10
Conducting polymer nanotubes for controlled release of drugs (dexamethasone in the
example). (Adapted from Abidian, M.R., Kim, D.H., Martin, D.C.,
Adv. Mater.
, 18, 405-409, 2006. With
permission.)
conceived as systems with intrinsic bending properties enabled by conducting polymer actuating
elements embedded in the wall of the catheter itself [104]. They could contribute to make intra
luminal interventions safer, easier, and more accurate. Figure 16.11 shows a schematic drawing of
this concept.
In this respect, the Japanese company EAMEX has recently developed a hollow cylindrical
tubing with multidirectional bending properties (Figure 16.12), which could provide interesting
openings for this type of applications.
Although these examples are very promising, the actuation technology based on conducting
polymers still requires basic improvements in order to achieve higher reliability, response speed,
and lifetime.
