Invention:
This invention is a fabrication method for free-standing thin-film composites reinforced with nanofibers. These composites are on the scale of hundreds of nanometers to a few microns in thickness and exhibit strong mechanical integrity. The formation of ultra-thin, flexible layers without requiring a supporting substrate is broadly applicable across many industries including energy, healthcare, and wearable systems and allows for the development of structurally sound films suitable for integration into various devices and materials.
Background:
Thin-film technologies are critical in areas such as energy systems, biomedical devices, sensors, and wearable electronics. However, creating ultra-thin films that are both mechanically robust and free-standing presents ongoing challenges in scalability, versatility, and durability. Existing methods often require rigid supports or produce films prone to damage during handling or integration. This method addresses these limitations by introducing nanofiber reinforcement within the thin-film matrix, improving mechanical strength while maintaining low thickness and flexibility.
Applications:
- Energy storage and conversion devices
- Healthcare materials and biomedical devices
- Flexible and wearable electronics
- Sensors and functional coatings
- Thin-film manufacturing platforms
Advantages:
- Mechanically reinforced while remaining ultra-thin and flexible
- Compatible with multiple end-use markets
- Free-standing structure allows broader device integration
- Scalable fabrication method suitable for industrial processes
- Applicable across energy, health, and materials science sectors
