Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026
08:29
A 3D-printed Chamber for Organic Optoelectronic Device Degradation Testing
Published on: August 10, 2018
7.3K
Impact of humidity on functionality of on-paper printed electronics
Roger Bollström1, Fredrik Pettersson, Peter Dolietis
1Center for Functional Materials, Turku, Finland. Paper Coating and Converting, Department of Chemical Engineering, Åbo Akademi University, Turku, Finland.
Nanotechnology
|February 14, 2014
Summary
This study developed a multilayer coated paper for printed electronics, enhancing conductivity and printability. Optimized surface properties improve fine line definition and humidity resistance for conductive tracks.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Surface Engineering
- Printed Electronics
Background:
- Developing paper substrates with integrated barrier and printability is crucial for advanced applications.
- Existing methods often struggle to balance surface properties with functional performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of surface properties on inkjet-printed silver lines on a novel multilayer coated paper.
- To evaluate the dimensional stability and conductivity of printed electronics under varying humidity conditions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized pilot-scale slide curtain coating to create a multilayer paper substrate.
- Adjusted surface properties (smoothness, porosity) via calendering.
- Assessed fine line printability and conductivity of inkjet-printed silver using microscopy and electrical measurements.
- Subjected samples to humidity cycles to test dimensional stability and functional performance.
Main Results:
- Surface roughness significantly affects narrow line printability, increasing defects.
- Smoother, calendered surfaces yield finer line definition with reduced edge raggedness.
- The barrier layer effectively mitigates humidity-induced dimensional changes and surface roughness increase.
- Conductivity of printed tracks is better maintained on the coated paper under humidity stress.
Conclusions:
- Multilayer coated paper offers a promising substrate for printed electronics, balancing barrier and printability.
- Surface engineering through calendering is key to achieving high-resolution printed conductive features.
- The barrier layer enhances the durability and reliability of printed electronics in humid environments, though encapsulation is needed for long-term transistor functionality.
