Study of Cellulose-Based Nanocomposite Sheets for Potential Application in Flexible Electronics

Abstract

Cellulose, an abundant, cheap and bio-compatible polymer have been widely used in writing and packaging for decades. In modern world it has found a vast range of high tech applications such as flexible electronics. It is anticipated that use of cellulose substrate in flexible electronics can reduced millions tons of electronic waste. In this work lemongrass leaves were used as cellulose source to prepare cellulose sheets. The characterization techniques such as FTIR and XRD were used to confirm that fabrication of cellulose substrate. The analysis on cellulose substrate was performed by using two conventionally used methods in electronics e.g., electro spraying of conductive ink and adhesive copper tape. Poly 3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene: Poly styrene sulfonic acid (PSS: PEDOT) was used as conducting ink for electro-spraying. The substrate, electro-sprayed for 6 minutes and curred at 80 °C for 40 minutes, showed remarkable results. Comparison of substrate behavior was made between synthesized cellulose substrate and commercially used reference PET substrate by using adhesive copper tape. Current-voltage measurement were recorded for the conductance study. Results of cellulose substrates behavior similar to that of reference substrate show that it can be a potential candidate of eco-friendly substrate for electronics; addressing the need for biodegradable, cost-effective and environment friendly green electronics especially in the fabrication of recyclable microwave components and antennas.