Electrohydrodynamic Printed PEDOT:PSS/Graphene/PVA Circuits for Sustainable and Foldable Electronics

Abstract

AbstractThe generation of electronic waste (e‐waste) poses a significant environmental challenge, necessitating strategies to extend electronics’ lifespan and incorporate eco‐friendly materials to enable their rapid degradation after disposal. Foldable electronics utilizing eco‐friendly materials offer enhanced durability during operation and degradability at the end of their life cycle. However, ensuring robust physical adhesion between electrodes/circuits and substrates during the folding process remains a challenge, leading to interface delamination and electronic failure. In this study, electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing is employed as a cost‐effective method to fabricate the eco‐friendly foldable electronics by printing PEDOT:PSS/graphene composite circuits onto polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) films. The morphology and electrical properties of the printed patterns using inks with varying graphene and PEDOT:PSS weight ratios under different printing conditions are investigated. The foldability of the printed electronics is demonstrated, showing minimal resistance variation and stable electronic response even after four folds (16 layers) and hundreds of folding and unfolding cycles. Additionally, the application of printed PEDOT:PSS/graphene circuit is presented as a resistive temperature sensor for monitoring body temperature and respiration behavior. Furthermore, the transient features and degradation of the PEDOT:PSS/graphene/PVA based foldable electronics are explored, highlighting the potential promise as transient electronics in reducing electronic waste.