Organic polymers to revolutionise electronics: report

09 January 2009

The discovery of conductive organic polymers, which have varied applications ranging from toys to car interiors and military devices, is set to revolutionise the electronics industry, according to a research report.

Research and development (R&D) of organic polymer conductors are boosting technological developments in flexible electronics, consultancy firm Frost & Sullivan said in its report 'Emerging Trends in Flexible Electronics.'

The developments in flexible electronics are expected to bring about revolutionary changes in the design and conceptualisation of electronic devices in the consumer, medical, and military sectors, the report said.

''This emerging field has demonstrated huge potential for cost reductions, as printed manufacturing techniques are being developed for volume production,'' the report noted.

Besides lowering costs, flexible electronics also features low weight, ruggedness, ease of use and possible transparency of electronics. It will also facilitate new applications for electronics.

Organic semiconductors used in flexible electronics does not compete with silicon devices, rather, they open new avenues of applications that rigid circuits and electronics have not been able to penetrate, the report noted.