Transfer-printing of patterned PEDOT:PSS structures for bendable, stretchable and biodegradable electronics

Abstract

The conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) is of great interest for a variety of applications in flexible and stretchable electronics, due to its high conductivity, optical transparency, mechanical properties, commercial availability and biocompatibility. However, to advance novel applications on conformable substrates, the development of innovative and reliable methods for processing conductive polymers is vital. Here, a fast, dependable and easy PEDOT:PSS transfer-printing method onto flexible, transparent and biodegradable poly(vinylalcohol) (PVA):glycerol targets is presented. In contrast to previous work, this method neither depends on acid, nor doping, nor surface soaking treatments. Furthermore, this approach is compatible with common strategies to induce stretchability and increase the conductivity of PEDOT:PSS. To ensure the applicability to next-generation flexible and stretchable electronics, the electrical, morphological and adhesion properties before and after printing are characterized. Additionally, a straightforward methodology to pattern transfer-printable PEDOT:PSS structures is established, using an O₂-plasma treatment. Furthermore, the water-soluble targets allow for environmental-friendly disposal.