Flexible Electronics and Sensors from Ion-Containing Polysaccharides

Invention Summary:

Sustainable materials have become attractive to reduce carbon footprint. Cellulose is a biobased material that is renewable and economical. Recent discoveries in films constructed from cellulose-based materials have demonstrated shape‐memory behavior and electro-spinning leading to applications in reusable sensors, flexible batteries, electroactive fibrous mats and/or masks.  

Rutgers researchers in collaboration with Murray State University have created a novel electroactive material, utilizing cellulose as a building block which is manufactured by electrospinning of fibrous mats (ion-containing fibers, textiles) or in the formation of thin films (sensors, membranes). The addition of multiple ionic groups can improve the mechanical and morphological characteristics of cellulose.  

Market Applications:

• Fabricate membranes for batteries.
• Flexible electronics and sensors.
• Food and skin chemical additives.

Advantages:

• Greater conductivity.
• Inexpensive and renewable.
• Increased flexibility, mechanically robust, and shape memory behavior.

Intellectual Property & Development Status: Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships contact:  marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu