Enhanced durability and conductivity of UV-curable PVP-coated copper electrodes via IPL sintering for electronic applications

The article investigates the enhancement of copper electrodes through the application of UV-curable polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) coating and intense pulsed light (IPL) sintering. This innovative approach addresses the challenges of oxidation and high-temperature sintering, which are critical for the fabrication of conductive patterns in printed electronics. The study demonstrates that PVP-coated copper electrodes achieve a specific resistivity of 12 µΩ·cm, comparable to high-temperature sintering methods, but with the added benefit of rapid processing and compatibility with heat-sensitive substrates. The use of IPL sintering, operating at temperatures between 200–400°C, ensures efficient sintering without damaging sensitive materials. The article also explores the effectiveness of anti-corrosion agents, such as organic solderability preservative (OSP) and oleic acid, in maintaining the performance of these electrodes under various environmental conditions. The detailed experimental procedures, including the preparation of Cu-based and PVP-coated Cu-based pastes, rheological analysis, and durability testing, provide a comprehensive understanding of the methods and benefits of this innovative approach. The results highlight the potential of UV-curable PVP-coated copper electrodes for applications in flexible electronics, wearable devices, and other advanced electronic systems.