Nano Processing Technique for Flexible Electronics

Conductive polymer nanocomposites have become increasingly popular due to the combined flexibility and low cost. The presence of a conductive filler network, which is reconfigurable by applied strain, can be used in sensors. The materials to be developed are ideal for the biomedical field and wearable electronics where flexible non-invasive devices can be worn outside the body to monitor vitals such as heartrate and movement. This research is to tailor the phase morphology, electrical conductivity, and the piezoresistivity of polymer nanocomposites. To fabricate the smart materials, thermoplastic polyurethane and high-density polyethylene are mixed with nanoparticles (e.g., carbon nanotubes or silver nanowires) using various nanostructuring techniques to ensure a reconfigurable conductive networks can developed in the polymer matrices, which can be porous or non-porous. This material could have a substantial impact on many industries such as smart electronics and textiles, which could see these sensors embedded in clothing and biomedical devices.

Faculty Supervisor:

Siu Ning

Student:

Partner:

Seoul National University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

York University

Program: