"Revolutionary Ballpoint Pen: Writing with Customizable LEDs"
Researchers at the McKelvey School of Engineering have developed ink pens that allow individuals to handwrite flexible, stretchable optoelectronic devices on various materials, including paper, textiles, rubber, plastics, and 3D objects. The pens use specially designed inks made of conductive polymers, metal nanowires, and perovskites to create multicolor LEDs and photodetectors. This innovative handwriting approach enables the creation of functional devices quickly, easily, and cheaply, opening up possibilities for personalized wearables, disposable electronics, and next-generation wearable electronics. The technology has potential applications in education, smart packaging, medical sensors, and more, and could democratize electronic manufacturing.