“Heat-Press-N-Go” Stretchable Interconnects Enabled by Liquid Metal Conductor with Supramolecular Confinement

Liqing Ai, Weikang Lin, Limei Ai, Yannan Li, Mengyi Qiang, Xiaoya Wang, Min Shi, Zhengbao Yang*, Xi Yao*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Journal Publications and ReviewsRGC 21 - Publication in refereed journalpeer-review

6 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The integration of soft, conformable components and rigid microelectronics or devices is a critical frontier in stretchable hybrid device development. However, engineering interconnects capable of tolerating high-stress concentrations and preventing debonding failures remain a key challenge. Here a stretchable conductive interconnect derived from the liquid metal conductor with supramolecular confinement is reported, capable of reliably connecting soft and rigid parts through a simple “Heat-Press-N-Go” method. Leveraging the dynamic bonding nature of supramolecular polymers, when confined within liquid metal compartments, not only effectively stabilizes the conductive path of the stretchable interconnect, but also offers high adhesion to diverse surfaces, reaching an exceptional electrical stretchability of up to 2800%. As proof of concept, this interconnect is used to assemble wearable devices including reconfigurable stretchable circuits, multifunctional sensors, and on-skin electromyography, exhibiting high signal integrity and mechanical durability. The “Heat-Press-N-Go” chip and circuit integration offers the boundless potential to enhance the adaptability, convenience, and versatility of on-skin and wearable electronics across various applications. © 2025 Wiley-VCH GmbH.
Original languageEnglish
Article number2425264
JournalAdvanced Functional Materials
DOIs
Publication statusOnline published - 6 Jan 2025

Funding

This study received support from the Research Grant Council of Hong Kong with a No. of CityU11307721, Shenzhen Basic Research Program with a No. of JCYJ20210324134009024, Innovation and Technology Fund with a No. of MHP/030/21, and Research Project from City University of Hong Kong with a No. of 7005875.

Research Keywords

  • and wearable electronics
  • liquid metal composites
  • reconfigurable interconnects
  • stretchable hybrid devices

RGC Funding Information

  • RGC-funded

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