Westwick, DavidDalton, ColinGhazavi Khorasgani, Atefeh2013-10-082013-11-122013-10-082013Ghazavi Khorasgani, A. (2013). Microelectrodes for Neural Stimulation: Effects of Geometry (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca. doi:10.11575/PRISM/26905http://hdl.handle.net/11023/1136Multi-electrode arrays are non-invasive devices for neural stimulation in vivo and in vitro. Improving the efficiency of these devices is desired for stimulating neurons over extended periods of time. In this work, changing the geometry of the electrode used in the array is investigated. This approach will improve efficiency without requiring fundamental changes in the fabrication process, allowing for ease of implementation. A model is presented to study features that provide optimum stimulation threshold from different sizes and shapes of electrodes. Specially, a single neuron-electrode interface was modelled and cell depolarization generated by stimulating the cell by different electrode shapes were compared. The geometries investigated were star, spiral, serpentine, and circular electrode shapes. Based on the simulations, the electrode geometries were designed and then fabricated into a planar microelectrode array test device. Proof of principle in vitro experimentation was then conducted, with the results being compared to the simulations.engUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.Engineering--BiomedicalEngineering--Electronics and ElectricalFinite element modelingNeuron stimulationMicroelectrode arrayMicroelectrodes for Neural Stimulation: Effects of Geometrymaster thesis10.11575/PRISM/26905