A team of researchers from MIT and Delft University has achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of 3D printed electronics. Using conventional 3D printers and a biodegradable polymeric material combined with copper, they have developed a new way to manufacture resettable fuses, without the need for semiconductors. This advance presents an alternative to traditional electronic devices, which rely on semiconductors like transistors to regulate current flow.
The Manufacturing Process: An Eco-Friendly and Accessible Solution
The process involves printing thin traces of a special polymer with copper, which cross in such a way that they allow control of the electrical resistance by adjusting the applied voltage. This mechanism is fundamental for the operation of electronic circuits, as it controls the current flow in devices, mimicking the functions of traditional transistors.
One of the main advantages of this technology is its capacity for decentralized manufacturing, which could enable small laboratories, companies, and even homes to manufacture their own electronic devices without depending on large semiconductor factories. This advance becomes especially relevant after the global semiconductor shortage experienced during the pandemic.
From Research on Magnetic Coils to Transistor Manufacturing
The origin of this technology lies in a previous study on magnetic coils, where researchers discovered that the material used for 3D printing changed its resistance under electric current. This discovery opened the door to using the material in electronic applications, such as transistor manufacturing. Although the technology has not yet reached the performance of traditional semiconductors, it has great potential for simpler applications, such as controlling the speed of electric motors in simpler devices.
- More eco-friendly manufacturing: The 3D printing process uses less energy and generates less waste than traditional semiconductor manufacturing methods.
- Decentralization of production: This technology could enable the manufacturing of electronic devices on a small scale, without the need for large factories.
- Potential for simpler applications: Although it does not replace traditional semiconductors, the technology is suitable for simple applications, such as motor control.
Future Perspectives: Fully Functional Electronics
The MIT team has ambitious plans for this technology. In the future, they could use it to create fully functional electronics, including more advanced devices like 3D printed magnetic motors. The possibility of manufacturing electronic devices directly in space is even being considered, eliminating the need to transport components from Earth.
This advance shows how 3D printing can be used to manufacture electronic devices using conductive materials, opening new possibilities for the creation of more sustainable, accessible, and easy-to-produce products. Thus, the future of 3D printed electronics could represent a fundamental step toward the manufacturing of more sustainable and decentralized electronic devices.
"Active electronics can be manufactured with 3D printers using conductive materials, opening up a range of possibilities for more eco-friendly and accessible devices," highlighted one of the project's researchers.