Zinc-Based Batteries are Screen-Printed (Like T-Shirts) for Flexible Wearable Electronics

The rapidly growing portable electronics industry means huge demand for affordable, durable batteries. National Science Foundation-funded small business Imprint Energy is pioneering a new way to manufacture ultra-thin, inexpensive, flexible, high-energy density batteries. The company's zinc-based rechargeable batteries overcome historical challenges by using a new chemistry for the electrolyte solution, making the material more stable. The battery is made on screen-printing equipment, the same method used to print t-shirt designs. The innovative process results in rechargeable batteries that are bendable and less expensive.