Printed electronics – this term covers countless products and opportunities, as well as entirely new possibilities. It stands for electronic applications that are produced by printing techniques. Functional inks are employed instead of colored inks. RFID solutions, sensors, and solar cells are among the items already being produced in this way. A 30-cent[1] temperature sensor is today no longer a dream, but a reality. By using roll-based printing methods, many running meters of conductive materials can be printed so inexpensively that the cost per unit falls dramatically.

The interaction between the printing plate and the functional ink is critical to achieving optimum results. Complex inks in particular demand a great deal from the printing plate. Saueressig, along with ink producers, is exploring the printing properties of inks and coatings for all manner of applications. The knowledge acquired in this area is now being used for printing on electronically functional materials. Added to this is the considerable experience gained from a wide variety of projects and printing techniques. Saueressig has already been working on the development of suitable solutions for the printing of sensors, memory elements, and RFID antennas, etc., for a number years. As a result, Saueressig can offer its clients a wide range of products in the field of printed electronics. Development, testing, tools, along with appropriate machinery for producing electronic components – all from a single source.

Printing and embossing plates from Saueressig measure up to the highest quality standards. The uniform surface of the printing plate makes it possible to always print electronic components of consistently good quality. In addition, the printing plate's long service-life promises an excellent cost-benefit ratio.

With printing and embossing plates from Saueressig, customers can test their electronic components at Saueressig laboratories before putting them on the market. Doing so allows them to cost-effectively check their interim results and pursue further development. Should innovative machine components be needed, Saueressig's expertise in constructing special-purpose machines can be of further assistance. Saueressig has more than 50 years experience in fashioning and refining continuous-feed materials and is therefore ideally positioned to support the client's project and guide it to a successful conclusion.

For those interested, finished projects and follow-on testing were on view at drupa in Düsseldorf, where Saueressig had a booth showcasing its expertise in printed electronics.