Natural Polymer in Soft Electronics: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Electronics Engineering

Background:

• Nondegradable plastic pollution threatens environmental sustainability.
• Natural polymers offer biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based plastics.
• Regenerated natural polymers show promise for soft electronics applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore natural polymers as building blocks for soft electronics.
• To investigate compatibilization of natural polymers with conductors.
• To address challenges and propose solutions for natural polymer utilization in soft electronics.

Main Methods:

• Delineation of natural polymer polymorphs.
• Investigating compatibilization via interfacial bonding/intermixing and surface functionalization.
• Analysis of material properties, device functionalities, and environmental impact.

Main Results:

• Natural polymers can be compatibilized with inorganic/organic conductors for various device applications.
• Identified challenges include limited durability, conductivity-deformability trade-offs, and degradation control.
• Proposed solutions and future prospects for sustainable soft electronics.

Conclusions:

• Natural polymers are credible, sustainable alternatives to synthetic polymers in soft electronics.
• Further research can overcome limitations and enhance the use of natural polymers.
• This work provides a pathway for eco-friendly soft electronic devices.