Coatings for Microneural Implants: Biological and Mechanical Considerations

This chapter provides an overview of how coatings can be used to improve the performance of neural interfacing devices by improving biological integration and mechanical properties. The rationale for adding device coatings and the general attributes that are important to consider for all coatings are introduced. The chapter is then organized by the coating goal: (1) improve biological integration or (2) improve mechanical properties. For each type of coating the rationale behind how it can improve device performance is presented and is followed by examples of their use in the literature to highlight their advantages and disadvantages.