Real-Time Visualization Of Stretchable Electronics

What if you could see how stretchable electronics deform in real time without relying on simulations or damage? Learn more!

A research team at POSTECH has developed a new technology to analyze and visualize, in real-time, the deformation of “serpentine” structures—key components in stretchable electronics. The process is displayed through colour changes.

Stretchable electronics have evolved from bendable and foldable designs to systems capable of full freeform deformation. These technologies are increasingly used in displays, sensors, semiconductors, electronic skin, biomimetic robots, and bright clothing.

– Advertisement –

There are two main approaches to stretchable technology: developing rubber-like elastic materials and designing structures that integrate with existing technologies like semiconductors, displays, electrodes, and sensors. In this field, serpentine interconnects—wavy, elastic connections—are crucial for adding flexibility to non-stretchable components. Understanding how these structures deform during stretching is essential for advancing the technology.

Real-time serpentine deformation

Previously, studying deformation in serpentine structures was only possible after physical damage, such as breaks, had occurred. This limitation forced researchers to depend on theoretical simulations or incomplete data from earlier stretching cycles, making it difficult to gain real-time insights into structural behaviour.

The team addressed this issue by utilizing structural colour changes—nanoscale colour shifts that occur during deformation. They developed a system using Chiral Liquid Crystal Elastomer (CLCE), a mechanochromic material that changes colour when stretched, to achieve precise, real-time visualization of deformation in serpentine structures. The team also validated their findings with theoretical finite element analysis, demonstrating the potential of this technology to optimize structural designs.

Technological and industrial significance

The approach followed by the team removes the need for complicated nanofabrication and offers a clear, real-time view of how serpentine structures deform. It also provides practical design guidelines for optimizing these structures in various stretching conditions, helping accelerate the commercialization of stretchable devices.

The research enables precise evaluation and design of connection structures essential to stretchable technology. It is expected to expand applications and accelerate commercialization in displays, semiconductors, sensors, electronic skin, smart clothing, and soft robotics.

Reference: Sang Hyun Han et al, Optical Visualization of Stretchable Serpentine Interconnects using Chiral Liquid Crystal Elastomers, Advanced Science (2024). DOI: 10.1002/advs.202408346