Fabrication of Elastomeric Wires by Selective Electroless Metallization of Poly(dimethylsiloxane)

A simple, low-cost method for fabricating flexible copper wires on elastomeric substrates is demonstrated. The use of microcontact printing and electroless metal deposition rather than conventional photolithography and physical vapor deposition of metals makes the process inexpensive and operationally simple. Copper films on elastomers may be used to fabricate flexible electronic circuits and biocompatible electronic devices.