Printed Electronics
Polymer electronics is thin and flexible and is printed onto a polyester film in several layers. For this process, different polymers and printing techniques are used.
Because of the processing on printing machines, the production of large rolls is possible. As a result of the low price of polymer electronics in contrast to classical electronics, polymer electronics can be used for single-use applications.
PolyIC is using continuous printing methods that allow to produce low-cost electronics in high-volume. These methods are essentially based on well-known printing methods such as:
- Flexoprinting: a high pressure method that is especially well applicable to print on plastic substrates
- Offset printing: a flat printing technique that makes a high resolution possible
- Gravure printing: a low pressure printing method that makes high volumes and the use of organic dissolvent possible
- Rotary screen printing: a method that allows to print in thick layers
- Coating methods: diverse methods to apply homogeneous and thin layers
Of course, these methods have to be adapted to the special requirements of polymer electronics such as very high resolution, high cleanliness as well as precision of register. Furthermore, instead of the conventional printing inks, the custom-made polymer solutions are used that can only be adapted to the methods up to a certain point while ensuring a good printing result as well as electrical functionality.
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