As part of the device miniaturization trend happening worldwide, consumer electronics are becoming increasingly streamlined, with conductive inks, flexible batteries, and other technologies making this possible. IDTechEx's portfolio of Printed & Flexible Electronics Research Reports and Subscriptions explores the latest developments across the sector.
Conductive inks and the emergence of specialized applications
Conductive inks are renowned for their ability to bring electronic functionality to thin and flexible substrates, including photovoltaic panels, smart-packaging, and wearables, abandoning the requirement for a bulky printed circuit board (PCB). Available in multiple form varieties including flake-based, nanoparticle, and stretchable, the inks are commonly silver or copper based, with fluctuations in the prices of the metals somewhat impacting use despite silver being overall better performing, according to IDTechEx's research. The report, "Conductive Inks Market 2026-2036: Technologies, Applications, Players", explores the different conductivity levels of different inks, and their best-suited applications.
There is always a trade-off to be expected between the numerous characteristics of inks, with the importance of certain qualities determined on a case-by-case basis. IDTechEx also identifies opportunities emerging for conductive ink manufacturers, whereby unconventional applications could emerge that would require a bespoke ink and therefore be of increased value with its own established market share. In-mold electronics and wearable electronic skin patches or e-textiles are examples of these applications, also covered in IDTechEx's portfolios of Printed & Flexible Electronics Research Reports and Wearable Technology Research Reports.
With the emergence of sustainability as a focus for electronic manufacturing, technologies like conductive inks can contribute to these efforts by abolishing the need for excess materials and enabling the streamlining of a variety of technologies.IDTechEx's report, "Sustainable Electronics and Semiconductor Manufacturing 2025-2035: Players, Markets, Forecasts", highlights a movement towards electronics that don't require PCBs, as their manufacturing uses large amounts of copper, resins, glass fibers, and other toxic materials that create material waste. IDTechEx also identifies issues with the lifespans of electronic devices being much shorter than the lifespan of components, creating the generation of excess materials, as there are difficulties with separating components from devices. The less components that are used within an electronic device, replaced by technologies such as conductive inks, could mean this issue is drastically reduced.
Flexible batteries for niche applications
Batteries with special form factors can be developed to suit niche applications that require flexibility, most commonly smart labels and wearable devices. While thin and flexible batteries are fantastic for streamlining devices and enabling the miniaturization of products, IDTechEx's report, "Flexible Batteries Market 2025-2035: Technologies, Forecasts, and Players", highlights that the thinner the battery, the lower the energy density. The technical problems and high costs associated with thicker flexible batteries also create challenges for their uptake, meaning as a result, development is slow, with a lack of breakthroughs in recent years.
However, the deformation of conventional Li-ion batteries can cause electrolyte leakage and safety concerns. According to IDTechEx's research, for applications such as smart labels and wearables, where safety and consumer health is more at risk, the introduction of thinner, flexible batteries with different chemistries can provide safer alternatives. The report identifies thin-film solid-state, bulk solid-state, zinc-carbon, and silver zinc batteries as having both excellent flexibility and safety, each with a good readiness level for commercialization. Other avenues of improving battery performance include reducing the energy consumption of devices, and improving charging methods, so that safer battery chemistries can be used without energy density concerns or frequent recharging needs.
For more information, visit IDTechEx's portfolio of Printed & Flexible Electronics Research Reports and Subscriptions for the latest research, developments, and forecasts within the sector.
