New MIT Research Enables 3D Printing of Electronics Without Semiconductors

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to 3D print active electronics, such as transistors, using a copper-doped polymer, eliminating the need for traditional semiconductors, New Atlas reported yesterday.

This breakthrough could facilitate electronics fabrication in remote locations, including spacecraft.

The team initially focused on fabricating magnetic coils and discovered that their polymer exhibited significant resistance changes when an electric current was applied, mimicking semiconductor behavior. They successfully demonstrated fully 3D-printed resettable fuses and transistors, which, while larger and less powerful than conventional chips, are durable and suitable for simple applications.

This innovative approach uses biodegradable materials and does not require cleanroom conditions, making it accessible for various engineering projects. As the technology matures, it has the potential to democratize electronics manufacturing, allowing hobbyists and engineers to create functional devices in diverse environments.