# Experimental Validation of a Battery-Free RFID-Powered Implantable Neural Sensor and Stimulator

## TL;DR

This paper validates a battery-free RFID-powered implantable device that can wirelessly monitor and stimulate nerves in living organisms.

## Contribution

The novel contribution is the experimental validation of a battery-free RFID-powered neural interface at a high technology readiness level.

## Key findings

- The RFID-powered system maintained stable wireless power through 20 mm of biological tissue.
- In vivo trials showed a 100% success rate in eliciting motor responses via wireless stimulation.
- Thermal safety was confirmed with a maximum temperature of 28 °C during operation.

## Abstract

Introduction: Neurological injuries significantly impair quality of life by disrupting neural transmission. Traditional implantable stimulators often rely on internal batteries, which limit device longevity and necessitate repeated surgical interventions. Objective: This study presents the experimental validation of a battery-free, RFID-powered neural platform for peripheral nerve signal acquisition and stimulation, targeting TRL-6 validation. Methods: The prototype incorporates an adjustable analog front-end with gains up to 93 dB and a biphasic current-controlled stimulator. Validation was performed through benchtop testing, biological tissue assessments using porcine tissue, and functional in vivo trials in adult Wistar rats (n = 3) over a three-month period. Results: Benchtop evaluation confirmed gain accuracy with errors below 2.2 dB and precise stimulation timing. The system maintained a stable 3.3 V wireless power link through 20 mm of biological tissue using RFID. In vivo experiments indicated a 100% functional success rate (51/51 trials) in eliciting gross motor responses via wireless stimulation. Thermal safety was confirmed, with a maximum operating temperature of 28 °C, remaining well below physiological limits. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the functional feasibility of a battery-free, RFID-powered neural interface for wireless signal acquisition and stimulation, supporting system-level validation of this architecture.