Brain implants made in Kiel

Using a unique manufacturing technology developed and patented by Acquandas, the U.S. company  Synchron is currently testing a brain-computer interface designed to help paralysed and non-verbal  patients communicate through thought impulses, and even control devices such as wheelchairs. The  study, which is progressing towards regulatory approval, has already reached significant milestones. In 2021, ten individuals – six in the U.S. and four in Australia – received a Kielmade implant near their motor cortex via a minimally invasive procedure through a vein. The implanted electrode connects to a sensor in the chest, which in turn links to a computer, enabling control of digital devices. “The results are promising, and the study will expand to more participants in 2025,” says Acquandas CEO Rodrigo Lima de Miranda. This success, he adds, places them far ahead of the competition. Neuralink, a company founded by tech billionaire Elon Musk, relies on open-brain surgery, whereas the Synchron-Acquandas approach is minimally invasive and significantly less risky for patients. 

While the Synchron project is currently the most significant, it is by no means the only one involving the  Kielbased company. “As a contract manufacturer, we use our highly innovative production technology to bring other companies’ ideas to life. Several dozen major clients in the U.S., as well as in Europe and Australia, now rely on our expertise,” explains Lima de Miranda, whose company, founded in 2012, specialises in producing high-quality micro-components made from materials such as nitinol,  magnesium, iron alloys and other metallic substances. Nitinol (nickel-titanium) is a shape-memory alloy, capable of “remembering” its original shape after significant deformation, thanks to its geometrically complex structures created with thin-film technology. This property has made nitinol a staple in  applications like stents and artificial heart valves for decades. Lima de Miranda, who holds a doctorate in engineering, sees significant potential in the development of electronic micro-implants that function as interfaces or even replace medications. “Acquandas’ ability to produce both prototypes and high-volume quantities makes us especially appealing as a supplier,” he adds. 

More than 20 years ago, the now 47-year-old Brazilian came to Kiel to pursue a master’s degree in  materials science at the Technical Faculty of Kiel University (CAU). Prior to that, he had worked for an automobile company in Brazil. After earning his master’s, Lima de Miranda remained in Kiel to complete his doctorate, specialising in shape-memory alloys. Unwilling to let his findings gather dust, and armed with his idea for thin-film neurostents, he won the WTSH Schleswig-Holstein Innovation Award in 2009 and founded the startup Acquandas. What began as a one-man operation has now grown into a team of 23. “We aim to grow to 50 employees by 2030 and welcome applications from interested candidates,” says the CEO. Acquandas is also involved in the Science and Technology Academy at CAU, which  enables master’s students to combine their engineering studies with practical work at a company, often paving the way for permanent employment. 

In view of the company’s anticipated growth, additional space will soon be needed. Currently,  Acquandas is based on the campus of the Technical Faculty at Kiel University (CAU) on Kiel’s east bank, which is home to the Nanosystem Technology Competence Centre. At its heart is the Kiel NanoLab, a state-of-the-art facility for nanoscience and surface research, featuring a cleanroom and other advanced technologies – some of which are owned by Acquandas. In 2026, the company will relocate to its own offices, complete with a dedicated cleanroom. “We’re thrilled to have secured a suitable site here in Kiel,” says Lima de Miranda.