Researchers from the Faculty of Science at the University of South Bohemia and the Czech Academy of Sciences have unveiled a groundbreaking method for printing structures that combine nanoparticles and sintered metals through laser printing. This innovative technology paves the way for new possibilities in electronics, optics, and healthcare, envisioning custom implants embedded with printed conductors and sensors.
The process begins by creating a bundle of nanoparticles, which are 1,000 times smaller than a human hair. A substrate is then inserted into this bundle and exposed to a laser programmed with a specific structure. This technique harnesses nanoscale properties, enabling a five-fold reduction in the temperature required for sintering nanoparticles, with printing resolution limited only by the wavelength of light rather than particle size.
This approach has led to the production of micro-mirrors, micro-wires made from nanoparticles and sintered metals, and even the logo of the Czech Technology Agency as a token of gratitude for their support. Scientists are optimistic that this method will revolutionize the manufacturing of sensors and flexible electronics, particularly in the medical field.
Developed in collaboration with the Department of Physics and the Department of Chemistry at the University of South Bohemia and the Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, this technology has been patented and published in the prestigious journal Nano Letters, where it was selected for the front cover.
“Securing the patent is crucial for us. It not only demonstrates that we have introduced something entirely new during a time of enormous popularity for additive manufacturing, but it also opens doors for practical applications, which we are currently addressing in collaboration with the Technology Transfer Office at the University of South Bohemia,” stated Jiří Kratochvíl, the team leader. He added that the publication's prominence in Nano Letters signifies the international importance of their work, which has been a challenging yet rewarding research journey. The method has also been recognized as a finalist in the national technology competition Transfera.