Design of conductive pattern on recycled paper

Abstract

Purpose In the current study, the authors prepared conductive nano-structured thin films composed of copper on the surface of the printed paper using a magnetron sputtering system. Furthermore, the printability of conductive films for the sake of re-using printed paper and its additional applications were also investigated. Design/methodology/approach Paper-based electronic devices have been the matter of intense interest because of their easy accessibility, lightweight, low cost, biodegradable, recyclable and ecofriendliness. Furthermore, these devices are inexpensive compared to other substrates. Nowadays, flexible energy and electronic devices made of the paper substrate are receiving a significant interest because of the issue of sustainable energy production from the environment. One of the most reliable techniques for the deposition of thin films and creating conductive patterns on the paper is magnetron sputtering. Findings The printed and coated printed papers were evaluated with X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive (SEM-EDX), four-point probe conductivity and spectroscopic measurements. Practical implications The paper investigates the printability of conductive paper attributable to its second application. Originality/value The authors prepared conductive nanostructured copper-based thin films on the surface of the printed paper. They recovered and reused the paper as a root of raw material due to the environmental issue.