Microfibrillated cellulose coatings for biodegradable electronics
| Authors: | Kayla Guyer, Michael Machold, Xiaoyan Tang, Nathan J. Bechle, Junyong Zhu, Biljana Bujanovic, Nayomi Z. Plaza, Peter Kitin, Kevin T. Turner, John M. Considine |
| Year: | 2025 |
| Type: | Scientific Journal |
| Station: | Forest Products Laboratory |
| DOI: | https://doi.org/10.1515/npprj-2024-0086 |
| Source: | Nordic Pulp & Paper Research Journal |
Abstract
There is an increasing need for inexpensive biodegradable sensors that can be easily employed in networks such as the Internet of Things. Paper materials are renewable, biodegradable, and sustainable, and thus could be used as substrates for electronic sensors. This work examined two commodity cellulose materials, an envelope paper and a linerboard, as potential substrates. A multistage coating process was developed to create a smooth surface for screen-printing of sensors using inexpensive microfibrillated cellulose. Employing this process, approximately 10 gm−2 of microfibrillated cellulose was deposited, enhancing the mechanical performance of the coated materials compared with their uncoated counterparts. Sensors printed on the microfibrillated cellulose-coated substrates had reasonable electronic performance compared with those printed on a polymer substrate. Results indicate that further reducing surface roughness would be helpful for sensor performance.