HAVERHILL, MA – DKN Research has developed a process for screen-printing resistors and capacitors using fine silver thick-film circuits on flexible substrates.

The new technique mimics traditional etched circuits, the inventors say, and is made possible through an advanced screen-printing process using special silver, carbon and dielectric inks and related materials that include substrates and insulating materials as the fundamental technology for printable electronics. 

Technical advances with ink materials and printing equipment over the past few years have trickled down, and the wiring capabilities from the new thick-film circuits are closer to traditional etched copper circuits, says DKN.

The firm developed the advanced screen-printing technology, and can build functional thick-film circuits by partnering with equipment and material manufacturers.

The process reportedly can produce silver traces down to 30 µm lines and spaces for double and multilayer circuits with 80 µm via holes.

The conductivity of the new silver traces is one order higher compared to traditional thick-film circuits, the firm says. The traces also are solderable.

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