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Thin Films of Liquid Metal (Gain) by Electrophoretic Deposition of Nanoparticles

AJAS · 2020 Materials Science and Engineering (inferred)

Varun Varanasi · North Carolina Academy of Science

Overview

This work discusses a novel method to deposit thin films of a liquid metal, eutectic gallium‐indium (EGaIn), on a copper substrate through electrophoretic deposition (EPD). The EPD procedure involves the application of an electric field in the range of 200-250 V/cm to an isopropyl alcohol solution containing a charging salt (0.108 M MgSO4), and EGaIn nanoparticles (0.03 g/L). These experimental conditions were found to form a conductive liquid metal layer approximately 10-20 μm thick with a naturally forming solid oxide skin on EGaIn, adding enhanced mechanical stability and self-healing characteristics to the liquid film. Optical profilometer analysis of the thin films revealed a rough surface morphology as a result of the oxide layer. Film thickness and mass were found to be strongly connected to EGaIn concentration in solution, charging salt concentration, environmental temperature, and EPD duration. Specifically, film thickness was directly correlated to EGaIn concentration and EPD duration. This work has implications in flexible electronics and other circuitry as a novel self-healing and conductive agent to repair damaged electrical circuits.

Competition history

  • AJAS 2020 Category not listed

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Source: AAAS Annual Meeting (Confex) / American Junior Academy of Science

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