Printed paper displays for smart packaging and labels.
Abstract
A Swedish R&D institute has developed a technology for printing EC (Electrochromic) display elements on flexible substrates like papers or foils. The technology utilizes novel printing inks in conventional printing equipment to achieve paper-like displays. A reel-to-reel manufacturing process enables a very low cost that opens for new applications e.g. smart labels/packages & other printed matters. The offer includes evaluation kits, prototypes and volume series, as well as transfer of know-how.
Description
In this patented technology, the display element is structured as a lateral electrochemical cell with an active electrode (pixel) and a counter electrode, both covered by a solid electrolyte (see figure). The electrodes, which are made from PEDOT-PSS (Polyethylenedioxythiophene-Polystyrene Sulphonic Acid) serves both as electrochromic material and electrical conductor.
Innovative Aspects:
The paper display is partly bi-stable, which means that once it is switched it only takes a small sustain current to keep it updated. It is fully flexible, and the printed devices are less than 100 micrometers thick.
A slightly modified label printing press is used for manufacturing the paper displays in only three printing steps. Optional printing steps can be used for the graphic appearances. The printing speed is 5 to 20 m/min but it has a potential to be increased to more than 100 m/min.
The reel-to-reel printing process enables rational production at a very low cost that opens for new applications e.g. smart labels/packages and other printed matters. The paper display is environmentally friendly and fully disposable.
Through a spin-off, the institute offers evaluation kits, prototypes and volume series, including transfer of know-how. Licensing may also be an option.
The paper display is made entirely of organic polymers and an organic electrolyte on ordinary double-coated fine paper. The low cost and the disposable material open for new innovative applications never thought of before.
