Innovative three-dimensional microprinting technology from researchers from Singapore allows you to create compact electronics without limitations related to the substrate and external pressure.
Specialists from the National University of Singapore developed the CHARM3D technology, which is based on the use of robocasting or direct ink application. This method, which is already used to create three-dimensional circuits, is usually limited by the poor electrical conductivity of the materials and the need for a substrate material that reduces the efficiency of the devices. However, the use of the so-called Field metal, a eutectic alloy of indium, bismuth and tin, with a low melting point (62 °C) and rapid solidification, allows the creation of complex three-dimensional structures that can stand freely.
Field's metal combines a low melting point and fast hardening, making it an ideal material for robocasting complex structures such as vertical letters, cube frames and spirals. This makes it possible to significantly facilitate and speed up the process of 3D metal printing, opening up great opportunities for mass production of complex three-dimensional electronic circuits.
Professor Benjamin Tee, head of the research group, emphasizes that CHARM3D has huge potential for mass production and wide application implementation One of the key advantages of this technology is the self-healing ability of printed products. Due to the low melting point, the broken circuit can be easily repaired with an ordinary industrial hair dryer.
The authors of the invention propose to use this technology to print three-dimensional circuits for portable temperature sensors, antennas for wireless medical devices and metamaterials for controlling electromagnetic waves. This will make it possible to obtain more detailed images of internal organs or luggage during cargo inspection.