LOTUS · Low-cost highly conductive high resolution structures for flexible \nlarge area electronics by high throughput \nlow temperature processing

The LOTUS proposal addresses the urgent need for a technology to produce the highly conductive patterns required for high throughput large volume manufacturing of flexible large area electronics. While all printed electronics need electric wiring" LOTUS specifically targets the applications the most advanced towards commercialization: flexible thin-film photovoltaics, RFIDs, and OLEDs for lighting.<br/>The general objective is to provide a simple, low cost, energy efficient, environmentally friendly and R2R compatible platform to produce highly conductive structures with high resolution. The interplay between materials researchers, technology developers and end users allows to generate solutions quickly and effectively with minimum investment and time and to achieve maximum output with minimum risk. This will also accelerate the transfer to mass production. The strategy is based on an integrated approach to address both the common needs and the specific requirements of the most representative applications.<br/>The platform developed will reinforce the leading position of the European Industry in flexible OLEDs, PVs, and RFIDs. Moreover, it will be beneficial to any flexible electronics including thin-film transistors, power converters, flexible batteries, printed sensors for biomedical use (point-of-care) and food protection/freshness applications. These devices presently at various stages of development also need an "electric wiring". Thus LOTUS will contribute to wealth creation and making new technology available to address societal needs. The technologies and materials generated will enable the European Community to be competitive with Asian and North American products (there are presently no conductive inks and sintering tools manufacturers in Europe). LOTUS project will create synergies and cooperation between research groups, equipment manufacturers and end users bringing them to the position of global frontrunners in their respective technology areas."