The long-term objective of this project is to investigate materials and processes in order to develop a new generation of unperceivable, Ultra-Conformable (UC) electronic systems on ultra-thin (sub-micrometric) films, that can be released from a temporary substrate onto the human skin - as in the case of temporary tattoos or stamps - for monitoring physiological parameters during sports activities.

The electronic tattoo will act as self-standing and autonomous system, embedding several electronic components, being able to simultaneously sense various bio-related parameters, elaborate/store information and communicate data through visual outputs.

Organic electronic materials will be used as building blocks of electronic devices, making use of printed electronics techniques.

Since extremely low thickness is the key point to reach ultra-conformability and conformal adhesion to arbitrary surfaces, ultra-thin systems onto ultrathin transferrable polymer substrates (<500-1000 nm) is targeted.

The specific tasks of IF TUGraz in this overall framework will regard the investigation and development of suitable:
• substrate materials (e.g. tattoo paper, polymer nanosheets) and release strategies
• flexible external connectors
• flexible/stretchable metal interconnectors
• skin contact electrodes based on conducting polymers
• VIAs (Vertical Interconnect Access) technology on tattoo for multilayered device
• organic photodetectors

Contact: Francesco Greco