Laser activation of nanocomposites / graphene carbonaceous materials

A simple and cost-effective method to create micro-circuits

Laser activation of nanocomposites / graphene carbonaceous materials for micro-circuitry production in nanoelectronics

Traditional manufacturing for molded interconnect devices requires the use of injection molding and mold design, which are expensive and complex. To address this issue, the team has developed a new and simple way to produce micro-circuits for nanoelectronics. First, a solution doped with graphene carbonaceous and metallic-organic composite powders is applied to the surface of a 3D object made of thermoplastic (e.g. ABS) materials. The coated 3D object is then activated through a laser process to form circuit track structures with a reduced and controlled electrical resistance on its surface. This novel method requires less parts and it is cheaper to manufacture circuit tracks on thermoplastics composites.

Selective laser patterning on the paint containing malachite:

Special Features and Advantages

This simple method is ideal for producing complex micro-circuits on 3D objects efficiently and flexibly. It is also suitable for prototyping.
The micro-circuits are formed by using laser to activate the solution. It is more cost-effective than the tradition method that involves injection molding and mold design.

Applications

Household appliances, e.g. LED light bulbs
Medical devices, e.g. glucose meters
Mechanical engineering, e.g. IC sensors
Consumer electronics, e.g. cell phones

Patent

201510760302.3 (China)

Principal Investigator

Ir Prof. Kam-chuen YUNG
Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering

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A simple and cost-effective method to create micro-circuits