The present invention describes a method for fabricating a flexible temperature sensor, comprising the following steps: (a) preparing a polymer-based flexible substrate, (b) inkjet printing the main sensing layer onto the prepared flexible substrate, (c) photonic curing of the printed film, (d) forming metal contact pads on both sides of the electrode, and (e) encapsulating the entire photonic-cured printed electrode. This invention specifically pertains to the method of measuring sub-zero temperatures using a graphene-based flexible sensor fabricated with inkjet printing technology. The invention is applicable in the field of printable and flexible electronics, offering low-cost, large-area compatible, and conformable solutions.
Figure (1) Schematic illustration of the testing procedure during temperature sensing measurement
Conventional sub-zero temperature sensors typically employ rigid and bulky metals or ceramics in their construction, making them challenging to handle and less suitable for portable applications. These sensors are often mechanically rigid and lack flexibility due to their complex designs. Photolithography is a widely used technique for fabricating temperature sensors, but it has drawbacks such as requiring additional processes like development and etching, which can chemically affect the substrate or material properties, potentially leading to deterioration.
- Utilizes carbon nanostructures and polymer molecular structures for excellent mechanical flexibility.
- Applies low thermal budget photonic curing to inkjet-printed graphene ink on a soft polymeric substrate.
- Ensures stability and flexibility through numerous bending cycles.
- Measures temperature accurately from -30°C to 80°C
- Simplifies sensor fabrication with lightweight design and straightforward process.
A method for fabricating a flexible temperature sensor includes the following steps: (i) preparation of a flexible substrate, (ii) printing an electrode film on the flexible substrate using inkjet printing technology, (iii) photonic curing of the printed electrode film, (iv) creating metal contact pads on both sides of the electrode, and (v) encapsulation of the fabricated sensor.
In this process, the flexible substrate is an elastomeric polymer (polydimethylsiloxane). The ink printed on the flexible substrate is a two-dimensional carbon nanostructure known as graphene. Photonic curing of the printed ink is performed using a xenon flashlight. Metal contact pads are formed on both sides of the electrode using silver (Ag) paste. The entire device is encapsulated with an elastomeric polymer material. These sensing devices can sustain a high degree of flexibility and remain stable against continuous bending cycles, accurately measuring temperatures between -30°C to 80°C.
The invention is at the stage of Prototype demonstration and/or pilot scale system validation in relevant environment.
6
This invention is useful for the Pharmaceutical industry as it helps to detect sub zero temperatures with accuracy and is cost-effective. This leads to more advanced research for the medicines developed by the Pharmaceutical companies.
Given the challenges faced by the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries, there is a need for mechanically deformable temperature sensors that are cost-effective and capable of detecting sub-zero temperatures with high accuracy and sensitivity.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
202321036874
507880