Recent advances in the field of materials science have opened new possibilities for the fabrication of bioelectronics, devices designed to be worn or implanted in the human body. Bioelectronics can help to track or support the function of organs, tissues and cells, which can contribute to the prevention and treatment of various diseases.

A promising material for the fabrication of bioelectronics is PEDOT: PSS, a polymer known for its high electrical conductivity, flexibility and compatibility with biological tissues. Despite its advantageous properties, PEDOT: PSS is known to gradually dissolve in biological fluids, a limitation that has so far been counteracted using chemical compounds and processes.

Researchers at Stanford University, the University of Cambridge and Rice University recently uncovered an easier and potentially safer strategy to stabilize this bio-compatible polymer using heat. Their proposed thermal treatment, outlined in the journal Advanced Materials, was found to make PEDOT: PSS films stable in water without the need for any chemical additives.