Printing Electronics on Human Skin

Apr-29-18 Researchers have developed a way to 3D-print electronics directly on the skin, even if the subject is moving.

The printing process relies on a conductive ink made of silver flakes that will cure at room temperature. Temporary markers are placed on the subject’s skin, which the printer then relies on to track the subtly moving subject and adjust its print nozzle in real time. The printed electronic can be powered wirelessly—or via future 3D-printed batteries or solar cells—and then washed off after use.

Says Prof. Michael McAlpine,"We imagine that a soldier could pull this printer out of a backpack and print a chemical sensor or other electronics they need, directly on the skin. It would be like a 'Swiss Army knife' of the future with everything they need all in one portable 3D-printing tool."

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