Hydrogel-Mediated Direct Writing of Conducting Polymer Films

Conducting polymers (CP) are a unique material in that that they can facilitate electron flow like metals, but interact favorably with organic material. As a result, CP’s are now being looked at as potential components in implantable bioelectronics. Typical fabrication of conducting polymers is done within a liquid solution, and provides a large film of CP, therefore not allowing the fabrication of complex structures. In this work, we develop and characterize a methodology for depositing CP through a hydrogel “pen” to recreate the process of 3D printing. By instituting finer control over the morphology and shape of CP’s, advancements in applications such as directed neurite outgrowth and bioelectronic incorporation can be made.