3D-Printable Magnetoelectric Composite Ink for Stable Multifunctionality
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current magnetoelectric composites face challenges in maintaining multifunctional properties during 3D printing due to complex time-temperature and stress-dependent behavior, agglomeration of magnetic nanoparticles, and the use of non-biocompatible solvents, which restrict their applicability and printing complexity.
Innovation Solution
Development of organic-based magneto-strictive magnetoelectric materials using poly(vinylidene fluoride) in nonpolar solvents like dimethyl sulfoxide, incorporating nickel and ferric oxide nanoparticles, with photo-initiators, enabling 3D printing through modified 3D printers with in situ flash heating to maintain flowability and functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetoelectric composites are engineered at the nanoscale to optimize properties, then sensitivity and performance are improved, but manufacturing complexity and difficulty in maintaining multifunctional properties during 3D printing increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the composite material by using organic-based magneto-strictive materials with specific compositions (poly(vinylidene fluoride) in nonpolar solvents, nickel and ferric oxide nanoparticles) to achieve desired magnetoelectric properties while maintaining printability. This allows optimization of sensitivity through nanoscale engineering while managing manufacturing complexity through controlled material parameters.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials combining ferromagnetic and ferroelectric constituents with organic-based magneto-strictive materials. This composite approach enables the material to exhibit multiple functionalities (magnetic, electric, mechanical coupling) at the nanoscale while maintaining processability for 3D printing, thus improving sensitivity without excessive manufacturing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If 3D printing is used to fabricate complex magnetoelectric geometries, then manufacturing flexibility is improved, but maintaining multifunctional properties after printing becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses nonpolar organic solvents (inert environment) to dissolve poly(vinylidene fluoride) and suspend magnetic nanoparticles, creating a stable ink formulation that maintains material properties during storage and printing. This inert environment prevents oxidation and degradation, ensuring multifunctional properties are maintained after 3D printing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary preparation of the composite ink with controlled composition and properties before 3D printing. The ink is formulated with specific concentrations of nanoparticles and polymers in nonpolar solvents, and preliminary characterization is performed to ensure the material will maintain its multifunctional properties after the printing process.
3Reliability
If magnetic nanoparticles are incorporated to enhance magnetoelectric properties, then functional performance is improved, but agglomeration and clogging in nozzle outlet occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses poly(vinylidene fluoride) as an intermediary material that interacts with magnetic nanoparticles to prevent their direct contact and agglomeration. The polymer acts as a spacer and stabilizer, allowing nanoparticles to be suspended uniformly in the nonpolar solvent without clogging the nozzle, thus maintaining both functional performance and flowability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the concentration and size parameters of magnetic nanoparticles in the composite ink to optimize the balance between functional performance and flowability. By adjusting these parameters within specific ranges, the ink maintains sufficient magnetic responsiveness while preventing agglomeration and nozzle clogging during 3D printing.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional solvents are used in magnetoelectric composites, then ease of processing is improved, but biocompatibility is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the solvent system by using nonpolar organic solvents instead of conventional polar solvents. This parameter change enables the formulation of biocompatible magnetoelectric inks that maintain ease of processing while eliminating harmful effects on biological systems, making the materials suitable for biomedical applications.
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 provides agile, tunable magnetoelectric composites with on-demand mechanical, electric, and magnetic properties, suitable for wearable electronics and flexible devices, overcoming printing complexities and enhancing sensitivity and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
poly(vinylidene fluoride) and/or polyvinylidene fluoride (also called polyvinylidene difluoride, or PVDF) dissolved in a nonpolar organic solvent where a piezoelectric polymer is dissolvable
Implementation Method 2
organic-based magneto-strictive magnetoelectric materials
Implementation Method 3
with photo-initiators, enabling 3D printing through modified 3D printers with in situ flash heating
Data Source
AI summary
In alternative embodiments, compositions, including products of manufacture and kits, are provided that comprise magnetoelectric composites comprising ferromagnetic and ferroelectric constituents, as well as methods for making and using them. In alternative embodiments, printable inks or organic-based magneto-strictive magnetoelectric materials comprise: poly(vinylidene fluoride) and/or polyvinylidene fluoride (also called polyvinylidene difluoride, or PVDF) dissolved in a nonpolar organic solvent, where a piezoelectric polymer is dissolvable (optionally dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), or equivalent).