Year: 2015
Type: article
Abstract: Many flexible electronic devices contain metal films on polymer substrates to satisfy requirements for both electrical conductivity and mechanical durability. Despite numerous trials to date, the stretchability of metal interconnects remains an issue. In this paper, we have demonstrated a stretchable metal interconnect through control of the texture of a copper film with columnar grown grains on a polyimide (PI) substrate. The columnar grown copper films (CGC films) were deposited by regulating radio frequency (RF) sputtering powers. CGC films were able to sustain their electrical conductivity at strains above 100%. Instead of ultimate electrical discontinuity by channel crack propagation, CGC films maintained their conductivity by forming ligament structures, or a 'conductive net,' through trapped micro-cracks. XRD, AFM and in situ SEM analysis were used to investigate these stretchable conductors.
Source: Scientific Reports
DOI: 10.1038/srep13791
Authors: Jeong-Yun Sun, Hae-Ryung Lee, Kyu Hwan Oh
Institution: Seoul National University
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,690
Award: G905694319
OpenAlex ID: W2465044435