Printed electroluminescent products

The versatility and cost-effectiveness of thick-film techniques is demonstrated in consumer applications, as well. Printed thick film (PTF) materials are used in circuitry in games, membrane touch switches, electroluminescent lighting and signage. Thick-film circuitry is used in personal digital products and specialty applications such as those shown in Figure 1.26 and Figure 1.27. 

Other innovations include the smart surface technology process which Bayer has developed in conjunction with Lumitec of Switzerland and which involves the production of flat light sources. These electroluminescent elements, whose smart outer skin is a printed Makrofol/Bayfol (PC/PC + PBT blend), do not dissipate any heat and are maintenance free. The light is produced in the multilayer printed system beneath the skin and shines through it. The system itself is an electrode, Baytron P for example, with a counter-electrode underneath The two electrodes are separated by a non-conductor. The mouldings used are produced by a single step process and require minimal assembly work. Bayer has recently invested 24.5 million in a start-up company to produce electroluminescent films. 

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