In the rapidly evolving world of additive manufacturing, a groundbreaking study from the University of Southern California is set to revolutionize the way we think about multifunctional electronics. Led by Joshua Vandervelde at the Center for Advanced Manufacturing, this research delves into the creation of laser-induced graphene (LIG) on high-performance polymers, opening up new avenues for customizable, high-efficiency electronics in 3D-printed structures.
Imagine a world where complex electronic circuits can be seamlessly integrated into 3D-printed components, enhancing their functionality and performance. This is precisely what Vandervelde and his team have achieved by leveraging the power of laser scribing to create LIG on materials like polyetherimide (PEI) and polyether ether ketone (PEEK). These materials, known for their exceptional strength and thermal stability, are already staples in industries requiring high-performance components, such as aerospace and energy.
The study, published in Small Science, which translates to “Small Science,” reveals that LIG electronics fabricated on these polymers exhibit some of the lowest sheet resistances and highest conductivities ever reported. “The electrical performances we observed are truly remarkable,” Vandervelde explains. “With sheet resistances as low as 1.02 Ω sq−1 and conductivities up to 45.4 S cm−1, these LIG electronics are poised to outperform many existing solutions in the market.”
But the innovation doesn’t stop at conductivity. The researchers also demonstrated the versatility of LIG electronics by creating heaters and strain gauges on 3D-printed specimens. These LIG heaters showed impressive operating ranges and excellent electrothermal properties, while the strain gauges exhibited large gauge factors and minimal drift. This means that these components can be used in a wide range of applications, from precise temperature control in industrial processes to monitoring structural integrity in critical infrastructure.
The implications for the energy sector are particularly exciting. In an industry where efficiency and reliability are paramount, the ability to integrate customizable, high-performance electronics directly into 3D-printed components could lead to significant advancements. For example, smart grids could benefit from sensors that monitor energy flow in real-time, while renewable energy systems could use integrated heaters to optimize performance in varying environmental conditions.
Vandervelde envisions a future where additive and laser manufacturing processes are seamlessly integrated, allowing for the creation of multifunctional electronics on demand. “This approach not only simplifies the manufacturing process but also opens up new possibilities for innovation,” he says. “We’re not just talking about improving existing technologies; we’re talking about creating entirely new ones.”
As the research community and industry leaders digest these findings, the potential for widespread adoption becomes increasingly clear. The combination of additive manufacturing and laser-induced graphene technology could very well be the next big thing in electronics, paving the way for smarter, more efficient, and highly customizable solutions across various sectors. The future of electronics is here, and it’s being printed layer by layer, one laser scribe at a time.