Printed flexible silicon electronics on paper
Themes: Materials, High Tech
Proof of principle
A TRL is a measure to indicate the matureness of a developing technology. When an innovative idea is discovered it is often not directly suitable for application. Usually such novel idea is subjected to further experimentation, testing and prototyping before it can be implemented. The image below shows how to read TRL’s to categorise the innovative ideas.
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Why?
Our new production process for printed flexible electronics makes it possible to print high performance chemically stable crystalline silicon on flexible, biocompatible or biodegradable substrates such as paper.
How?
The new process uses a novel ‘silicon ink’ that uses UV light to cure instead of the traditional very high temperatures. Because crystalline silicon can be used, there is no need for poor performing and often toxic organic inks.
When?
The process has been developed, optimised and patented. Basic circuit components have been fabricated, confirming superior performance and improved chemical stability. Next step is to develop a complete sensor system.
Dr. Ryoichi Ishihara