Fraunhofer Institute for Ceramic Technologies and Systems IKTSWhether for new product ideas, the further development of existing systems, or the optimization of functional layers and printing processes: Fraunhofer IKTS supports companies throughout the entire development chain – from material selection and formulation to the characterization of the finished functional layer. This results in customized ink and paste systems as well as tailored material and process concepts for a wide variety of applications.
Customized inks and pastes for printed functional layers
Topic
From function to optimal formulation –
Tailored to your requirements
- Desired electrical, electrochemical, thermal, or sensory function
- Substrate material and surface properties
- Printing and coating processes
- Required line widths and layer geometries
- Wetting, adhesion, and leveling
- Surface tension, solids content, particle size, and viscosity
- Drying, curing, and application conditions
- Storage stability and processability
From sensors to electrodes: the interplay of materials, substrates, and printing processes
Conductive structures, sensors, electrodes, heaters, and joints are just a few examples of the diverse applications of printed functional layers in electronics, energy, sensor technology, and medical technology.
Power electronics |
Conductor tracks, contacts, resistor structures, soldering, and joining systems |
Flexible electronics |
Functions on polymer films, thin glass, textiles, and paper |
Microsystems |
Gas, temperature, strain, and other chemical or physical sensors |
Energy |
Electrodes for electrolysis and fuel cells, electric heaters |
Medical technology |
Electrodes and functional structures for diagnostic test systems |
Chemistry |
Catalytically active layers, heating structures for microreactors, and functional coatings for analytical systems |
The range of materials extends from precious metal-, metal oxide-, and carbon-based systems to ceramic and glass-based formulations. We select suitable powders, solvents, polymers, and additives. The institute has its own synthesis routes available for precious metal nanoparticles. Possible substrates include ceramics, glass, polymer films, textiles, and paper. Depending on the material system, coating requirements, and field of application, the developed inks and pastes can be processed using various printing and application methods, such as inkjet, aerosol, screen, or stencil printing, as well as airbrushing.
Functionalized thin glass for flexible electronics applications.
Matrix of magnetic field sensors, produced using screen printing and multi-panel printing.
Printed platform for multifactorial functionality monitoring in drug development.
360° service ranging from the development of functional inks and pastes to technology transfer
Fraunhofer IKTS supports the development of functional ink and paste systems along the entire value chain – from the initial material concept to industrial implementation. In addition to developing customized material and process solutions, we support companies in scaling up new products and integrating them into existing or newly established manufacturing processes. This includes, for example, selecting suitable equipment and process technology, designing and optimizing manufacturing steps, and training employees.