New nanomaterial approved for humans and the environment

The Danish Technological Institute has developed a new type of ink with electrical properties, which has now been approved for safe use for both humans and the environment.

The DIAGONAL project, supported by the EU's Horizon 2020 program, has focused on the safety of new nanomaterials.

As a partner in the project, the Danish Technological Institute has created an ink based on silver nanowire conductors—extremely small and thin threads of silver that give the ink its electrical properties. These properties can, among other things, be used for smart wearables.

The material can be used to produce flexible and transparent electronic circuits while maintaining low weight and high conductivity. For example, it can be applied in printed circuits for wearable technology, where it can be integrated discreetly and efficiently

- Christian Rein, Danish Technological Institute

Important green milestone

The benefits of this new nanomaterial go beyond its technological usability. It represents an important milestone in the development of environmentally friendly materials that combine high performance with sustainability. By reducing the need for heavier and less flexible materials, the silver nanowire ink can help create more energy-efficient products, which is crucial in a time when both consumers and businesses are demanding greater environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, the unique properties of the material enable new design possibilities for manufacturers looking to develop products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Broad applications

With the safety approval of the silver nanowire ink, the Danish Technological Institute looks forward to exploring broader applications of the material. Plans are underway to collaborate with various industries to implement the material in practical applications, such as flexible electronic components and advanced industrial processes.

- With the results we have achieved, we are ready to take the next step and integrate our material into commercial products. We will continue to improve the material's properties and explore how it can be used in even more contexts, says Christian Rein, product manager at the Danish Technological Institute, adding:

- At the same time, we have gained valuable experience in developing and working with nanomaterials, which strengthens our position in future research and development projects.