Printed stretchable sensors

Printed stretchable sensors can help bring electronics close to the body.

The sensors are more than just pliable and flexible circuits. They introduce a new dimension to flexibility as the sensors can stretch without losing function and can thus be placed close to or directly on the skin.

In recent years, Mekoprint has invested heavily in production equipment and intensive skills development, so we have now mastered screen printing of electrical circuits on ultra thin and stretchable foils in non-woven materials and TPU foil.

We know that stretchable sensors on flexible materials are a key part of the future of wearables and IoT devices.

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Mekoprint’s staff are always happy to act as a sounding board for new and existing solutions, and as a European partner, we are always close.

Mekoprint already assists many large companies in their digital journey – we are involved from the first prototype to scaling and cost-effective mass production in high volumes.

TPU foil (thermoplastic polyurethane) is an ultra thin transparent plastic foil which is flexible and highly elastic with a stretchable property upwards of 100 percent.

The stretchable circuit is screen printed in a roll-to-roll production. Conductive silver, graphite, graphic colours and lacquer are printed on the material – also with stretchable properties.

For handling in production, the foil is mounted on a silicone-coated liner which is heat stable throughout the production process.