Thinner. Faster. Cheaper.
A few years ago, printed electronics were still more scifi than reality. It was “movie magic” with things like newspapers that update and display real-time information, right on the paper, no phones required. And while we might not be to that level yet, there is no denying we are headed that direction.
The technologies required to print circuits have been getting more sophisticated, but at the same time they are also getting thinner, making it possible to have a piece no thicker than a standard postcard. And the manufacturers are just getting started.
“Tekra continues to support two distinct Printed Electronics trends,” says Rebecca Fuhrman, Digital Market Development Manager, Tekra (Booth 2711). “(1) Thinner PET base films (200 ga), especially those that are optimized for UV exposure, with little to no iridescence and improved dimensional stability. DuPont Teijin Films, Melinex STCH series are optimized for that market trend and (2) Conductive inks that contain smaller silver particle size, while exhibiting higher conductivity. Henkel’s Loctite ECI 1010 & ECI 1011 both permit deposition of thinner silver ink layers and narrower lines, leading to less ink use resulting in cost savings.”
What does that mean for the average printer?
It means that in the not too distant future, you will be able to purchase a production machine capable of printing complex circuits, that perform increasingly complex actions, in-line with other inks. As the costs continue to come down, more brand managers and print buyers are going to be open to testing new ways to use this technology to enhance their marketing messages. Instead of a call to action, you could have a button printed right on the postcard that lets a consumer opt in to receiving further messages, for example. Or, as screens continue to get lighter, thinner and cheaper as well, you can even embed video in a standard direct mail postcard.
“Reduced cost and ease of set up for printing things like circuit boards, electronics and other parts associated with printed electronics,” are driving the market, says David Conrad, Director of Sales and Marketing, Mutoh America (Booth 2545).
We are still at the cusp of this technology, and it still has a long way to go before it is mainstream. But as you walk the show floor, and as you listen to this year’s dedicated speakers in the Printed Electronics Symposium today, let your creative juices start flowing, and start thinking about how you can integrate these new processes into your shop, setting you up for success in this brave new world we are creating.
