Xerox-developed ink could result in wearable electronics
updated 04:55 pm EDT, Thu October 29, 2009
Xerox silver bullet ink used for flexible gadgets
A new conducive ink developed by Xerox will allow for the development of electronic circuits on flexible plastics, films and textiles. This so-called 'silver bullet' melts at 140 degrees Celsius, which means it could be laid into clothing and other products that use materials with melting points much lower than traditional metals. Typical melting points of metals range in the 1,000-degree Celsius range would melt such materials.
The applications for such technology could include a plastic electronic book reader that can bend and withstand damage, in addition to being lightweight. Xerox has been researching this technology since 2001, and can now produce a semiconductor, a conductor and a dielectric element. The circuits can be printed cheaply without the need for elaborate factories or clean rooms, reducing their price.
Xerox is looking to be a supplier to third-party electronics makers and is involved in discussions with several unnamed electronics manufacturers. [via VentureBeat]
