KERI scientists have developed a 3D printing method which can print nano, electronic tubes which could enhance wearable technology.

At the moment, 3D printed wearables are becoming more and more popular. But, if the interest in Apple Watches and FitBits are a sign of the times, we may soon be have technological devices embedded within every garment and accessory we wear. However, this future currently relies on an advancement of technology, especially when it comes to 3D printing.

For instance, take a look at South Korea’s Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI). The team of scientists, led by Seol Seung-kwon, have developed a new 3D printing method that could enhance our ability to wear 3D printed tech. The process is able to print nanoscopic, silver, electronic tubes.

The benefit of this process is that the scientists can create the minuscule components required for developing wearable tech. 3D printing tiny electronic tubes also offers immense design freedom for engineers. Currently, the production of such small components is quite a daunting task, but this new method could help change that.

KERI believes that the new development could offer interesting technological advancements in applications like bendable electronics.

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To develop the new method, the team developed a new nozzle that can print with conductive 3D carbon nanotubes. The researchers explain:

“To achieve high-quality printing with continuous ink flow through a confined nozzle geometry, that is, without agglomeration and nozzle clogging, we design a polyvinylpyrrolidone-wrapped MWNT ink with uniform dispersion and appropriate rheological properties.”

The institute states that this technique will aid 3D printing and develop the uses of the technology in “advanced conceptual devices.”

Seol also explains: “Existing 3D printing technology was limited in usage… This latest method would enhance the versatility of 3D printing in the making of various components needed for future wearables.”

With this technology, the scientists believe that they can create innovative wearables like bendable electronic suits. The suit could offer a full health diagnosis and work similarly to a FitBit. All in all, this new printing technique can manufacture tiny components that could someday play a major role in future wearable tech.

You can read more about the “Three-Dimensional Printing of Highly Conductive Carbon Nanotube Microarchitectures with Fluid Ink” in the science journal ACSNano.

Source: Yonhap News Agency