Conductive Composite Using Fluorofluid Layer for Flexible Electronics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conductive composites with high particle loading levels often result in rigidity, making them unsuitable for applications requiring flexibility and conductivity, as they compromise elongation at break and thermal stability.
Innovation Solution
A conductive composite structure comprising a first and second layer of elastomeric polymer with a layer of conductive fluorofluid in between, which provides conductivity without rigidity, using low viscosity conductive fluid and reinforcement mesh to prevent leakage and minimize conductive paste usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If high particle loading levels (in excess of 45 volume %) are used to achieve sufficient conductivity, then electrical conductivity is improved, but the composite becomes rigid and loses flexibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the conductive material from solid particles to a liquid fluorinated polymer composition, fundamentally altering the parameter of material state. This allows the conductive composite to achieve sufficient conductivity without the rigidity associated with high solid particle loading, as the liquid composition can be incorporated at lower volume percentages while still providing effective conductive pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite material system combining elastomeric polymer with liquid fluorinated polymer composition containing conductive fillers. This composite approach allows the elastomeric base to provide flexibility while the fluorinated polymer phase provides conductivity, achieving both properties simultaneously without the trade-off inherent in traditional solid particle composites.
2Reliability
If high particle loading levels are used to achieve conductivity, then electrical conductivity is improved, but elongation at break and tensile strength deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the particle loading parameter from high (in excess of 45 volume %) to lower levels by using a liquid fluorinated polymer composition. This composition can achieve effective conductivity at lower volume percentages because the liquid state allows for better distribution and contact between conductive fillers, thereby preserving the mechanical strength and elongation properties of the elastomeric matrix.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a liquid (fluorinated polymer composition) instead of solid particles to achieve conductivity. This liquid-based approach allows the conductive medium to flow and distribute uniformly within the elastomeric matrix, creating effective conductive networks at lower concentrations while maintaining the flexibility and mechanical integrity of the base material.
3Reliability
If high particle loading levels are used to achieve conductivity, then electrical conductivity is improved, but thermal stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite system where the fluorinated polymer composition serves as both the conductive medium and a thermally stable component. The fluorinated polymer matrix within the liquid composition provides inherent thermal stability, preventing the degradation that would otherwise occur at high solid particle loading levels while still achieving sufficient electrical conductivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conductive fluorofluid is used to provide conductivity without rigidity, then flexibility is improved, but leakage and loss of conductive paste increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the elastomeric polymer as a flexible matrix that contains and confines the liquid fluorinated polymer composition. This elastomeric shell structure prevents leakage of the conductive fluorofluid while allowing the overall composite to maintain flexibility and elasticity, effectively solving the problem of liquid conductive material loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite where the elastomeric polymer and fluorinated polymer composition work together synergistically. The elastomeric phase provides containment and prevents leakage, while the fluorinated polymer phase provides conductivity and flexibility. This composite approach eliminates the leakage problem of pure liquid conductors while preserving their flexibility advantages.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution achieves conductivity and structural integrity while maintaining high elongation at break, reducing the amount of conductive paste required, and preventing leakage, thus addressing the limitations of traditional conductive composites.
Implementation Method 1
a layer of conductive fluorofluid on the first layer of elastomeric polymer, wherein the conductive fluorofluid comprises a fluorinated liquid polymer and conductive particles
Data Source
AI summary
A conductive composite includes a first layer of elastomeric polymer, a layer of conductive fluorofluid on the first layer of elastomeric polymer, and a second layer of elastomeric polymer on the layer of conductive fluorofluid.