Liquid Metal Patterning and Unique Properties for Next-Generation Soft Electronics

Room-temperature liquid metal (LM)-based electronics is expected to bring advancements in future soft electronics owing to its conductivity, conformability, stretchability, and biocompatibility. However, various difficulties arise when patterning LM because of its rheological features such as fluidity and surface tension. Numerous attempts are made to overcome these difficulties, resulting in various LM-patterning methods. An appropriate choice of patterning method based on comprehensive understanding is necessary to fully utilize the unique properties. Therefore, the authors aim to provide thorough knowledge about patterning methods and unique properties for LM-based future soft electronics. First, essential considerations for LM-patterning are investigated. Then, LM-patterning methods-serial-patterning, parallel-patterning, intermetallic bond-assisted patterning, and molding/microfluidic injection-are categorized and investigated. Finally, perspectives on LM-based soft electronics with unique properties are provided. They include outstanding features of LM such as conformability, biocompatibility, permeability, restorability, and recyclability. Also, they include perspectives on future LM-based soft electronics in various areas such as radio frequency electronics, soft robots, and heterogeneous catalyst. LM-based soft devices are expected to permeate the daily lives if patterning methods and the aforementioned features are analyzed and utilized.

Automated summary

Room-temperature liquid metal (LM)-based electronics with exceptional conductivity, conformability, stretchability, and biocompatibility have the potential to revolutionize the field of soft electronics. However, the rheological properties of LM, such as fluidity and surface tension, pose challenges in patterning. In this study, the authors comprehensively investigate and categorize LM-patterning methods, and provide insights into the unique properties of LM-based soft electronics. They also discuss the potential applications of LM-based soft electronics in areas like radio frequency electronics, soft robots, and heterogeneous catalyst. Understanding and utilizing the patterning methods and unique features of LM could lead to widespread integration of LM-based soft devices into everyday life.