The Center for the Accelerated Applications at the Nanoscale (CAAN) is shifting its mission from nanotechnology to concentrate on printed electronics.
Printed electronics represents a paradigm shift in the manufacture of electronic devices. In general, the term refers to literally "printing" or "writing" electronic circuitry onto flexible substrates such as plastics, paper and textiles. Commonly, the electrically functional "inks" used to do this are based on nanomaterials, which is how the Center first got involved with the field several years ago. It is expected that printed electronics will result in widespread and very low-cost electronics with applications not typically associated with conventional (i.e., silicon-based) electronics, such as flexible displays, smart labels, animated signage, and active clothing. Initially, the Center will focus on two of the three foundational platforms of the technology to include electronic materials development integrated with manufacturing processes as well as device prototyping.
"Given the enormous industrial potential and early stage adoption of the technology, this is the optimal time to enter the field," Shawn Decker, director of the Printed Electronics Laboratory, said. "We are fortunate to already be in a leadership position with our involvement with the National Working Group for Flexible Electronics and hope to continue to establish the School of Mines as a recognized academic leader in this field, which is rapidly attracting other universities."
Dr. Decker is schedule to participate in Congressional briefings on the topic in Washington, D.C. next week. The event is organized by the U.S. Display Consortium and the Flexible, Printed, and Organic Electronics Initiative.