Scientists make sturdy touchscreens to prevent breakage

Scientists have developed a method to make touchscreens significantly sturdier, so that there is less chance of cracking if a user drops their smartphone, for example. Flexible electronics are used.

The method was developed by researchers at the University of Akron. According to the makers, they have found a way to make a layer of flexible and transparent electronics that is placed on a polymer layer. The electronics layer is formed by a network of copper nanowires. In addition, the scientists claim that the two layers combined are just as transparent as with a conventional touchscreen, which is made on the basis of indium tin oxide. However, displays from the University of Akron are sturdier due to their flexibility and can conduct electricity better.

By making touchscreens with the new, flexible layer of electronics, mobile phone displays can become much sturdier. This should ensure that a screen no longer breaks if, for example, a smartphone user drops his device. The scientists believe that their method for robust touchscreens can compete with existing, conventional touchscreens, partly because the production is theoretically cheaper.

The scientists have published their findings in the journal Nano of the American Chemical Society. For the time being, it is unclear when the flexible, sturdy touchscreens will be commercially produced and which manufacturers are interested.