Inkjet-printed thin-film sensors for measuring automotive relevant wide application-oriented temperature ranges

Within this research we demonstrate the development of a novel silver-based all inkjet-printed temperature sensor, that is able to detect temperature over a wide range from -30 °C to +60 °C, with a high degree of effectiveness. A silver nanoparticle-based ink was selectively implemented in combination with a set of tuned deposition parameters (printing and intermediate treatments), leading to a seamless development of sensors. Herein, the presented sensors can be developed on both, plastic films and directly on automotive standard constructional components. The sensitivity of these kind of novel sensors were found to be in range of 0.3 Ω/°C to 2.1 Ω/°C, depending on the implemented meander pattern geometry, which can be fully tunable and adaptable to the end application. Besides the illustration of the sensor performance with relation to sensor geometry i.e. meander line width, thickness and length, the operational stability of the temperature sensors was also validated over more than 60 hours. The sensors show linear characteristics with extremely high repeatability and operational stability. Due to these technical characteristics as well as provided long time stability, these temperature sensors are highly qualified in automotive specified applications with a direct deposition on the mechanical component as well. • All inkjet-printed temperature sensor were demonstrated that can actually measure a wide range of temperature change extending from -30 °C to +60 °C. • Sensor response is linear and show proportionality. • Sensitivity of the sensor (0.3 Ω/°C to 2.1 Ω/°C) can be tuned very easily, by increasing the pattern definition. • Performance of the all inkjet-printed temperature sensors were validated on the ACC metal plate with good sensor response, • Sensor responsivity were also found to be reliable and extremely accurate. • Printed sensors were demonstrated to be manufactured successfully on both plastic film as well as on automotive standard constructional component i.e. metallic plates, that could be used inside the vehicles directly.