Effects of Process Parameters and Isothermal Fatigue Cycling on Electromechanical Properties of Screen-printed Interconnect on Nonwovens for Wearable Electronics

Functionality of wearable electronics depends directly on the manufacturing process and the reliability of the device at different conditions. Nonwoven high-density polyethylene (HDPE) fibers shows promising properties such as moisture resistance, which makes it an excellent candidate for washable smart garments. In this research, effect of screenprinting parameters on electrical resistance of printed silver trace on nonwoven HDPE fibers is studied. Reliability of the printed trace during isothermal fatigue cycling at different test conditions and ambient are investigated. The results of statistical analysis reveal that low pressure and high speed of squeegees lead to decrease in the electrical resistance and higher quality of the printed trace. Higher strain amplitude and higher initial resistance accelerate damage accumulation during fatigue cycling. Exposure of the printed silver trace to high humidity and temperature (85 RH%-85°C) does not have a negative impact on electromechanical behavior during cyclic loading.