Tree-Root Inspired Template-Constrained Additive Technique Creates Durable Electronic Circuits

Conformal electronics are stretchable, flexible electronic devices often used for applications like smart skins and robotics. While 3D printing conformal electronics is possible, the process can come with challenges. Often, conformal electronics have significant mechanical and thermal vulnerabilities. Those made through traditional printing are often prone to tearing, cracking and other damage, which limits their performance and dependability. Furthermore, fabricating high-resolution circuits with diverse materials is cumbersome, and requires innovative manufacturing techniques to ensure mechanical durability and precision.

To address these issues with conformal electronic fabrication, Researchers at Xi’an Jiaotong University developed Template-Constrained Additive (TCA) printing technology and published their findings in December 2024. According to the results of their paper, titled Root-inspired, template-confined additive printing for fabricating high-robust conformal electronics, the new method promises to improve the durability and precision of additively manufactured electronic circuits.

Image credit: Xi’an Jiaotong University

Template-Constrained Additive: Inspired by Tree Roots

This biomimetic approach was inspired by the strength of tree root systems. In the face of violent winds and earthquakes, tree roots keep a tree grounded. The key here is the roots’ relationship with the soil: they are interlocked, promoting tight stacking of the soil particles. So, the Xi’an Jiaotong University researchers aimed to replicate these circumstances by creating a circuit that interlocked polymers and conductive polymers.