06.05.2024

Researchers at the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) have developed a plasma printing technology that enables the precise modification of surfaces on an extremely small scale.

With this technology, materials such as metal, polymers, fibres and paper can be coated with wafer-thin layers. The properties of these layers, such as thickness and chemical composition, can be precisely customised.

Image: The surface of a circuit board is processed by a micro precision device; Copyright: INP

A new plasma printing technology from the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP) enables the precise modification of surfaces on an extremely small scale.

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Wide range of applications thanks to precise surface modification

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

Advantages of the new plasma printing technology

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

BMBF innovation sprint promotes further development

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.

Objective: Industrial prototype and spin-off

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

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