stretchy embedded circuits

I was watching Daily Planet when I came across a segment showcasing a new "flexible embedded circuit". Unfortunately I couldn't find the one that was presented in the show, but I did find two other versions that also posses the same quality:





markpascua.com: stretchy, flexible circuits.

The first is a circuit developed at the University of Illinois. Embedded in silicon and plastic, this transparent circuit can be stretched up to 15%. Silicon wiring is bound to a stretched out thin sheet of rubbery plastic, when the components are assembled together, tension is released. In neutral state the silicon chip is wrinkled, this allows for expansion when the plastic membrane is stretched.




pinktentacle.com: Stretchable circuitry for soft machines.

The second is developed by researchers led by Takao Somea at the University of Tokyo. The university mixed carbon nanotubes with an ionic liquid containing charged particles that prevents the nanotubes from bunching and clumping, evenly distributing them on a rubbery backing. This allows for even more flexibility than what has been achieved before. Apparently this formula "conducts electricity more than 500 times better than other commercially available carbon nanotube-polymer blends." (pinktentacle.com)




Engineers can now stretch electrical circuits around awkward shapes or delicate areas. With this new material, researchers are envisioning applications ranging from biological (brain) implants, to "smart clothing" for athelets, to life like robotics and cyborgs.

Cool!