In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize the flexible electronics industry, researchers have successfully mimicked the intricate microstructures of leaf skeletons to create freestanding, highly conductive, and transparent surfaces. This innovation, led by Amit Barua from the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at the University of Turku, opens up new possibilities for advanced wearable electronics and energy-efficient devices.
The study, published in ‘npj Flexible Electronics’, focuses on the unique properties of leaf skeletons, which offer a high surface-to-volume ratio, transparency, breathability, and flexibility—all ideal characteristics for flexible electronics. The challenge, however, has been replicating these complex fractal surfaces at the microscale in a scalable and integrable manner. Barua and his team have overcome this hurdle by developing a novel biomimetic microfabrication method.
The researchers utilized a modified electrospinning technique, replacing the traditional fiber collector with a metalized biotic collector. This approach allowed them to replicate the microstructures of leaf skeletons with remarkable accuracy, achieving approximately 90% replication. The resulting biomimetic microfractals are not only freestanding but also highly transparent, stretchable, and breathable.
To demonstrate the practical applications of their biomimetic microfractals, the team fabricated biomimetic conductive fractal patterns (BCFP) by immobilizing silver nanowires using a simple spray-based method. These BCFP exhibited high conductivity with sheet resistances below 20 Ω sq–1 while maintaining good transparency. “The BCFP adheres conformally to human skin, acting as an electronic skin (e-skin),” Barua explained. “This makes them suitable for long-term use as epidermal sensors, allowing the evaporation of perspiration and ensuring comfort for the user.”
The potential commercial impacts of this research are vast, particularly in the energy sector. Flexible electronics that can conform to various surfaces and maintain high conductivity could lead to more efficient energy harvesting and storage solutions. Imagine solar panels that can be integrated into clothing or wearable devices that monitor energy usage in real-time. The applications extend beyond energy, with potential uses in healthcare, robotics, and even advanced bionic skin for gesture monitoring and other interactive technologies.
Barua’s work represents a significant leap forward in the field of flexible electronics. By mimicking nature’s designs, the researchers have created a versatile and scalable method for producing high-performance electronic materials. This breakthrough could pave the way for a new generation of devices that are not only more efficient but also more comfortable and adaptable to various environments.
The study, published in ‘npj Flexible Electronics’, highlights the potential of biomimetic approaches in advancing technology. As Barua noted, “The versatility of our method allows for the use of a wide range of polymers in biomimetic microfabrication, opening up numerous possibilities for future developments.” This research is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration and the potential of biomimicry in shaping the future of electronics.
