Electrically weldable conductive elastomers

Abstract

Flexible and stretchable electronic devices are subject to failure because of vulnerable circuit interconnections. We develop a low-voltage (1.5 to 4.5 V) and rapid (as low as 5 s) electric welding strategy to integrate both rigid electronic components and soft sensors in flexible circuits under ambient conditions. This is achieved through the design of conductive elastomers composed of borate ester polymers and conductive fillers, which can be self-welded and generate welding effects to various materials including metals, hydrogels, and other conductive elastomers. The welding effect is generated through the electrochemical reaction–triggered exposure of interfacial adhesive promotors or the cleavage/reformation of dynamic bonds. Our strategy can ensure both mechanical compliance and conductivity at the circuit interfaces and easily produce welding strengths in the kilopascal to megapascal range. The as-designed conductive elastomers in combination with the electric welding technique provide a robust platform for constructing standalone flexible and stretchable electronic devices that are detachable and assemblable on demand.