Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) have developed 3D-printed silicone foams to protect electronics from electrostatic discharge (ESD).
The silicone foams are printed directly onto electronic components, creating a cushion that physically shields the components and prevents electrical charges from building up.
The foam is made using direct ink writing (DIW) 3D printing technique, with added carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to control static electricity.
This innovation has potential applications in specialized equipment, such as medical devices and robots, to reduce repair costs and downtime caused by ESD.