The Polymer Society of Korea

Abstract

The gallium-based liquid metals are an appealing conductor for application in soft, stretchable and shape reconfigurable electronics due to metallic conductivity even while they are strained. The liquid metal spontaneously forms a passivating thin oxide layer (∼3 nm) on its surface upon exposure to oxygen. This oxide layer can promote the adhesion of the liquid metal onto various substrates and helps the metal be patterned into the desired geometries through various conventional ways. Ultrasonication can break the liquid metal into micro- and nanosized small particles stabilized by the oxide. These particles are useful because they enable alternative ways to pattern, handle, and utilize liquid metal. In this presentation, we will discuss recent emerging applications of the liquid metal particles-based composites for functional materials and soft devices.