Glossary: Screen printing

Post by Vicky Liu, Updated on May 30^th,2024

Screen printing in the printed electronics industry involves using a fine mesh screen and a squeegee to transfer specialized conductive, dielectric, or resistive inks onto a substrate through a stencil that defines the desired pattern. This method allows for the production of various electronic components, such as circuits, sensors, and displays, with precise control over the thickness and pattern of the printed layer. The process is cost-effective for high-volume production, versatile across different substrates, and essential for creating flexible and wearable electronics, solar cells, and medical devices.

Screen printing process

Preparation of the Screen:

A fine mesh screen, usually made of polyester or stainless steel, is stretched tightly over a frame. A stencil is created on the screen to block off areas where the ink should not pass through. This stencil can be made using a variety of methods, including photographic processes, where a light-sensitive emulsion is applied and then exposed to UV light through a photomask.

Ink Application:

Specialized conductive, dielectric, or resistive inks are prepared for the printing process. These inks often contain materials like silver, carbon, or polymer composites to achieve the desired electrical properties.

The ink is applied to the screen and a squeegee is used to push the ink through the open areas of the mesh onto the substrate below.

Printing:

The substrate, which can be flexible or rigid, such as plastic films, paper, or glass, is placed under the screen. The squeegee moves across the screen, pressing the ink through the open mesh areas and depositing it onto the substrate in the desired pattern.

Curing:

After printing, the ink needs to be cured or dried to ensure it adheres properly and achieves the necessary electrical properties. This can be done using various methods, such as thermal curing, UV curing, or sintering, depending on the type of ink used.

Advantages of Screen Printing in Printed Electronics

Cost-Effective for Large Production:

Suitable for high-volume production due to its scalability and relatively low cost.

Versatility:

Can print on various substrates and create a wide range of electronic components, including circuits, sensors, and displays.

Thickness Control:

Allows for precise control over the thickness of the printed layer, which is crucial for many electronic applications.

Pattern Accuracy:

Capable of producing fine and intricate patterns required for electronic circuits.

Applications in Printed Electronics

Flexible Circuits:

Used to create flexible circuit boards that can be bent and folded without breaking.

Wearable Electronics:

Ideal for producing sensors and circuits on flexible substrates that can be integrated into clothing and other wearable devices.

Solar Cells:

Screen printing is used to apply conductive patterns on solar panels.

Displays:

Used in the production of OLED and other types of electronic displays.

Medical Devices:

Used to print biosensors and other components for medical diagnostics and monitoring devices.

 

Overall, screen printing is a crucial process in the printed electronics industry, enabling the production of a wide range of innovative and cost-effective electronic devices.  

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