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2024
Jul
25
Research Paper: Tension-driven three-dimensional printing of free-standing Field’s metal structures
Congratulations to our Centre PIs Prof Jerry Fuh and Dr Tan Yu Jun, as well as the research team on their research paper “Tension-driven three-dimensional printing of free-standing Field’s metal structures” having been published in Nature Electronics! The research paper introduces a novel method for 3D printing complex metallic structures using Field’s metal, a eutectic alloy with a low melting point. Unlike traditional direct ink writing, which relies on low-conductivity composite inks and support materials, this technique leverages surface tension between the molten metal in the nozzle and the printed structure, eliminating the need for external pressure and ensuring smooth, uniform microwires. The process enables fast printing (up to 100 mm/s) of free-standing 3D structures—such as letters, frameworks, and scalable helixes—on various substrates without post-treatment. The printed Field’s metal structures demonstrate high electrical conductivity (2 × 10⁴ S/cm), self-healing properties, and recyclability. Applications include wearable battery-free temperature sensors, antennas for wireless vital sign monitoring, and 3D metamaterials for electromagnetic-wave control.
Read the paper here.
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