Lumitronix Utilizes Paper and PET as Printed Circuit Board

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

When compared to rigid printed circuit boards, FPCs are characterised by several advantages. Due to their flexible basic material, they can be used individually and due to their low weight, they additionally provide first and foremost luminaire manufacturers with more creative leeway. Furthermore, it is possible to implement whole new dimensions when it comes to the length. When compared to rigid printed circuit boards made of FR4 or aluminium, flex PCBs are cheaper and may be subjected to a higher dynamic und mechanical load without being damaged as a consequence.

Thanks to processing the FPCs in the form of reels with a length of 50 to 100 m the storage and transportation expenditures are lower as well. Additionally, large-scale manufacturers benefit from this form of printed circuit boards, since they are able to further process these on their own production line immediately and in an automated manner.

Applications of the Novel Technology

"As a matter of principle, this novel technology may be used to render any thinkable basic materials conductive and solderable. For instance, illuminated wallpapers are only one possibility for this innovative invention. Metallised paper may first and foremost be used in the field of advertising in the form of postcards, letter paper, posters, or packages and equipped with light-emitting diodes and other electronic components," says Hoffmann.

Large-area special applications may also be implemented. For instance, metallised paper or PET film equipped with LEDs may be used in order to produce huge illuminated placards or banners for exhibition stands that may simply be disposed of after having been used. A conductive surface may even be applied to functional textiles such as curtains, blinds, soft top cloths and then be equipped individually with LEDs and additional electronic components. The range of applications for the basic materials treated with plasma Metallization is truly manifold.

Another option is rapid prototyping, within the framework of which strip conductors made of silver paint are printed to paper using an ink-jet printer, then plasma-metallised, and then equipped. The printing process is significantly easier and less complex when compared to the conventional etching process, with the latter being very complex and also cost-intensive specifically for small numbers.

Exclusive Distribution by Lumitronix

The series production of the flexible basic materials as well as their resale are performed exclusively by the Lumitronix corporation that is characterised by years and years of experience in the field of LED technology, access to products of the leading LED und electronics manufacturers, as well as a large market penetration.

About Lumitronix

Lumitronix has been ranging amongst the leading specialists for LEDs und LED products for many years. As a competent partner for the industry, Lumitronix disposes of a broad know-how from several industries. The Swabian company headquartered in Hechingen is certified according to ISO 9001 and furthermore is the official distributor of market-leading manufacturers of LED technology. However, Lumitronix is not only active in the field of distributing LED products, but also has in-house development and production departments working according to customer-specific requirements. Quality Made in Germany.

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