In a groundbreaking development that could revolutionize the wearable technology and energy sectors, researchers have successfully created fully screen-printed stretchable liquid metal multilayer circuits using environmentally friendly solvents and a scalable water-spray sintering method. This innovation, led by Jin Shang from the Printed, Bio and Organic Electronics Units at the Department of Smart Hardware, Digital Systems Division, RISE Research Institutes of Sweden AB, addresses a significant challenge in large-area and high-volume manufacturing of stretchable circuits.
The traditional methods for producing stretchable circuits often involve complex and environmentally harmful processes. However, Shang and his team have developed a more sustainable approach. The key to their success lies in the use of liquid metal droplets dispersed in propylene glycol, a green solvent, and polyvinylpyrrolidone, a harmless dispersion agent. This combination not only makes the process more eco-friendly but also ensures high conductivity in the printed circuits.
One of the most impressive aspects of this research is the durability and performance of the printed conductors. During strain cycling tests, the printed conductors showed a resistance increase of less than 10% at 50% strain, far below the expected 125% increase due to the geometry factor. This remarkable stability under strain is a game-changer for applications in wearable technology and flexible electronics.
“Our method allows for the printing of high-performance multilayer circuits, which opens up new possibilities for wearable devices and flexible electronics,” said Shang. “The use of green solvents and scalable water-spray sintering makes this process not only efficient but also environmentally friendly.”
The potential commercial impacts of this research are vast, particularly in the energy sector. Imagine wearable devices that can monitor energy consumption in real-time, or flexible solar panels that can be integrated into clothing or building materials. The ability to create durable, high-performance circuits using sustainable methods could lead to a new era of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.
The development of printed stretchable near-field communication (NFC) tags further demonstrates the practical applications of this technology. These tags could be used in a variety of industries, from logistics and supply chain management to healthcare and consumer electronics.
This research, published in npj Flexible Electronics, which translates to “npj Flexible Electronics” in English, represents a significant step forward in the field of flexible and wearable electronics. As the demand for sustainable and high-performance electronic devices continues to grow, innovations like these will play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology. The work by Shang and his team not only pushes the boundaries of what is possible but also sets a new standard for environmentally responsible manufacturing in the electronics industry.
