Open Transverse ElectroMagnetic (TEM) cell as applicator of high-intensity nsPEFs and electro-optic measurements

Abstract

To expose biological cells or tissues to nanosecond pulsed electric fields of high intensity (>>kV/cm) and subnanosecond rise time, broadband exposure system with high-voltage handling capabilities and compatible with the tools of biologists are needed. To deliver subnanosecond pulses to a biological target, a hyperband antenna has been reported. In this study, we propose to use a Transverse ElectroMagnetic (TEM) cell. We characterize the system experimentally and numerically with Gaussian-like pulses of about 1.2 ns and 1.8 kV amplitude. The results are compared with those obtained using a classical electroporation cuvette, a typical delivery system to expose cell suspensions to ultrashort pulsed electric fields.

A versatile high voltage nano- and sub-nanosecond pulse generator

“…Compared to the previously-reported microstrip-based pulser, this device allows the generation of pulses of higher intensitiy and with more flexible duration. This generator can now be used to investigate the effects of intense nanosecond and subnanosecond pulses on biological cells or tissues when combined to specific pulse delivery systems via coaxial cables [39][40][41][42]. However, one should be aware that depending on the pulse applicator (electroporation cuvettes, microchambers, microfluific biochips,…), the pulse across the biological load can be significantly different from the pulse measured across an ideal 50 Ω load, especially when the pulse duration decreases [33].…”