(China Plastic & Rubber Journal) -- Bayer MaterialScience, one of the world's leading polymer and chemical company, has developed extensive technology know-how and a wide range of materials for customers who print polycarbonate films with electronic functions and process these into 3D electronic components using the film injection molding process.
Films can be printed in a limited space with several electronic functions such as wiring diagrams, actuators, sensors and antennae, which previously had to be applied as separate components. Integrating these functions therefore cuts the number of parts required and the amount of logistical and assembly work. This results in compact, ready-to-install electronic modules.
"This printed polymer electronics technology is seen as a next-generation technology for delivering cost-effective production of highly integrated, complex molded electronic components," explains Dirk Pophusen, head of business development for functional films in the Europe, Middle East, Africa, Latin America region at Bayer MaterialScience.
According to forecasts by British market research company IDTechEx, the global market for polymer electronics is set to grow to almost US$100 billion by 2020 and reach US$250 billion just five years later.