Large-Scale Rapid Laser Sintering of Highly Stretchable Electrodes Using a Homogenized Rectangular Laser Beam.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Development of stretchable conductive materials is crucial for wearable electronics.
• Existing fabrication methods for stretchable electrodes often lack speed, uniformity, or scalability.
• Need for robust and efficient methods to produce high-performance stretchable electrodes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of a fast, large-scale laser sintering method for stretchable electrodes.
• To optimize laser sintering parameters for enhanced electrical and mechanical properties.
• To demonstrate the application of laser-sintered electrodes in stretchable antennas.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a stretchable composite electrode using silver microparticles/flakes and polyester resin on a polyurethane substrate.
• Utilized a homogenized rectangular infrared (IR) laser (980 nm wavelength) for rapid sintering.
• Investigated the effects of laser power on electrode properties through electrical, electromechanical, stretching, bending, and twisting tests.

Main Results:

• Achieved a 1-second sintering time with uniform surface temperature.
• Optimized electrodes (50 W laser power) showed 210% stretchability, 1,000-cycle mechanical endurance, and excellent adhesion.
• Demonstrated superior bendability (1 mm) and twistability (90°) without damage.
• Fabricated a stretchable dipole antenna with 95% radiation efficiency, stable up to 90% strain.

Conclusions:

• The developed laser sintering method is highly effective for producing high-performance stretchable electrodes.
• These electrodes exhibit excellent conductivity, stretchability, and durability, suitable for wearable electronics.
• The technology is validated for applications like stretchable radio-frequency antennas, confirming its potential in advanced electronic devices.