Replacing the Gallium Oxide Shell with Conductive Ag: Toward a Printable and Recyclable Composite for Highly Stretchable Electronics, Electromagnetic Shielding, and Thermal Interfaces
Abstract
Liquid metal (LM)-based composites hold promise for soft electronics due to their high conductivity and fluidic nature. However, the presence of αGa2O3 and GaOOH layers around LM droplets impairs conductivity and performance. We tackle this issue by replacing the oxide layer with conductive silver (Ag) using an ultrasonicassisted galvanic replacement reaction. The Agcoated nanoparticles form aggregated, porous microparticles that are mixed with styreneisoprenestyrene (SIS) polymers, resulting in a digitally printable composite with superior electrical conductivity and electromechanical properties compared to conventional fillers. Adding more LM enhances these properties further. The composite achieves EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) exceeding 75 dB in the Xband frequency range, even at 200 per cent strain, meeting stringent military and medical standards. It is applicable in wireless communications and Bluetooth signal blocking and as a thermal interface material (TIM). Additionally, we highlight its recyclability using a biodegradable solvent, underscoring its ecofriendly potential. This composite represents a significant advancement in stretchable electronics and EMI shielding, with implications for wearable and bioelectronic applications.
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