New plasma printing technology enables surface modification in the micrometre range

The new plasma printing process opens up a wide range of potential applications in areas such as medical technology, bioanalysis, electronics, materials development, optics, photonics and microelectromechanics (MEMS). Among other things, the technology enables:

• Surface activation: improving the wettability and adhesion of materials
• Functionalisation: Introduction of specific functions such as conductivity, antibacteriality or hydrophobicity
• Chemical structuring: Creation of complex surface complex surface structures in the micrometre range
• Fine cleaning: Removal of impurities and contaminants
• Removal of layers: Precise removal of materials in a defined thickness

The technology developed at INP offers numerous advantages over conventional processes:

• Precise modification in the micrometre range: Enables processing of the finest structures and details
• Mask-less coating: Saves time and simplifies production processes
• Environmentally friendly: Lower energy and material consumption compared to conventional methods
• Versatile applicability: Wide range of materials and areas of application

The INP's pioneering plasma printing technology has attracted the attention of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). As part of the DATIpilot programme, INP researcher Dr Laura Barillas-Mora has been awarded an "Innovation Sprint" grant to further develop the plasma source used in the system. With a budget of 150,000 euros and a duration of 18 months, the first industrial prototype can now be produced.

The focus of the funded project "Micro-APPS: Development and transfer of a micro atmospheric pressure plasma source" is the development of a plasma source design suitable for industrial use, including user interface, electronic control and the necessary certifications. At the same time, further tests and validations of the technology will be carried out.

Laura Barillas-Mora is then planning a spin-off from the INP to commercialise the technology. Under the name MicroQuasar Technologies, the plasma printing process will enable more environmentally friendly production processes in a variety of areas in the future and the plasma source will be utilised for other applications beyond surface treatment.

COMPAMED-tradefair.com; Source: INP