Poly(lactic acid-co-oxacyclohexadecenlactone) (PLH): A Bio-Based Substrate for Flexible Printed Electronic Devices

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Sustainable Electronics

Background:

• Growing demand for sustainable materials in flexible printed electronics.
• Need for biobased alternatives to petroleum-derived polymers like polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate poly(lactic acid-co-oxacyclohexadecenlactone) (PLH) as a biobased substrate for flexible electronics.
• Compare PLH properties against PET for potential applications.

Main Methods:

• Mechanical testing (Young's modulus, elastic recovery).
• Dielectric strength testing.
• Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and derivative TGA (DTG).
• Contact angle measurements and confocal microscopy for surface analysis.
• Screen printing of conductive tracks and adhesion testing (ASTM D3359).

Main Results:

• PLH exhibits lower Young's modulus (26 ± 3 MPa) than PET (110 ± 10 MPa), indicating greater flexibility.
• PLH shows excellent elastic recovery with no permanent deformation after extension.
• Both substrates withstand >5 kV dielectric strength; PLH has a T5% of ~273 °C, suitable for printing inks.
• PLH demonstrates moderate wettability (80° ± 4) and slightly rougher surface than PET.
• Reliable screen printing of conductive tracks on PLH with good adhesion (ASTM D3359).

Conclusions:

• PLH is a viable biobased substrate for flexible electronics with moderate thermal requirements.
• Its mechanical flexibility, dielectric strength, and printability support its potential.
• Further research on bending durability and surface homogeneity can enhance PLH applicability.