Cima NanoTech engineers various formulations of its materials to specifically fit the deposition systems and applications of customers and partners. Interaction between the formulation and deposition system affects the performance of the final component. Specific deposition methods may be better suited for a given component.

Coating

A simple bar-coating method is used to apply Cima Nanotech’s proprietary conductive coatings. This can be done by batch or continuous methods, making possible the manufacture of conductive films on a variety of substrates, from discrete glass pieces to roll-to-roll coating on flexible, low temperature substrates.

Inkjet Printing

Conductive lines printed on a standard desktop inkjet printer

Advances in nanotechnology have enabled the inkjet printing of metals. The metal particles must be small enough to pass through the inkjet nozzles without clogging them. Generally, particles must be smaller than 100 nanometers. The nanometallic particles must be dispersed in a liquid vehicle for inkjet printing.

Inkjet printing electronics offers the potential for three-dimensional printing, thinner lines, less material usage, and the customization, flexibility, and low set-up costs of digital processes.