Internally Structured Conductive Composite for Reliable Stretchable Electronics

Abstract

Designing reliable stretchable electronic devices is challenging as the stress caused by stretching deformation hinders material performances. Furthermore, electrode resistance considerably increases upon stretching, thereby distorting electrical signals and causing errors. Herein, a hydrophilic solution process for fabricating a stretchable conductive composite is reported. This process forms an internal structure that improves conductivity by concentrating conductive fillers to create a conductive path. It also minimizes changes in the electrical properties during stretching, which maximizes the elastic durability. The rate of change in resistance and decrease in conductivity of the composite are significantly low, and performance remains consistent and reliable. The conductive composite paste can be applied to direct writing, simplifying patterning processes.