Plasma-aided direct printing of silver nanoparticle conductive structures on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) surfaces

Abstract

We report a controlled deposition process using atmospheric plasma to fabricate silver nanoparticle (AgNP) structures on polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrates, essential for stretchable electronic circuits in wearable devices. This technique ensures precise printing of conductive structures using nanoparticles as precursors, while the relationship between crystallinity and plasma treatment is established through X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The XRD studies provide insights into the effects of plasma parameters on the structural integrity and adhesion of AgNP patterns, enhancing our understanding of substrate stretchability and bendability. Our findings indicate that atmospheric plasma-aided printing not only avoids the need for high-temperature sintering but also significantly enhances the electrical and mechanical properties of the conductive structures, advancing the production of robust and adaptable electronic devices for wearable technology.