3D‐Printed Mold‐Cast MWCNT/PDMS Flexible Heatsinks for Thermal Management

Abstract

ABSTRACT The innovative concept of converting solid thermal conductors into flexible components is emerging as a compelling development in materials science and electronics. Flexible heatsink designs offer dynamic and adaptable solutions in the field of thermal management. This study focused on precisely fabricating and analyzing a soft and flexible heatsink, specifically designed for easy integration into foldable electronic devices, using 3D printed mold casting method. Heatsinks were fabricated using varying ratios of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), and the preferable ratio was determined based on design factors. As a result, the functionality of a flexible heat sink was experimentally verified its potential for smart system integration. It withstood a temperature of 100°C and performed heat transfer and successfully completed repeated and continuous operation tests including 1500 bending cycles and stretching tests. The heatsink with additive MWCNTs in PDMS exhibited enhanced heat dissipation. The functionality of the flexible heatsink was experimentally presented, demonstrating its applicability in wearable devices and its potential for integration into smart systems. These results suggest that facile fabrication of flexible heatsinks can be appropriate candidates as thermal interfaces for thermal management in wearable devices and flexible applications.