Tech Breakthroughs: Printed Electronics, DNA Testing, Split & Hide

Detecting Spoilt Milk in Your Fridge

Soon, your fridge may be notifying you when your milk has gone bad without you having to open the door. Thanks to advances in printed electronics, this could become a reality.

Researchers from Simon Fraser University (SFU) and the University of Saskatchewan, both in Canada, have developed a new material that can store up to 1,000 times more energy than current printed electronics.

Printed electronics are thin, flexible circuits that can be integrated into everyday objects. This technology is already being used in applications such as solar cells for car roofs and flexible displays on smartphones.

The research team’s breakthrough, which could speed up the development of the Internet of Things, involves embedding printed electronics in common objects like milk cartons and refrigerators. This allows these items to communicate with smartphones and computers, helping industries like food producers reduce waste and spoilage.

The team, led by Loren Kaake from SFU’s Department of Chemistry, used the Canadian Light Source synchrotron (a particle accelerator) to study and improve material performance. By analysing the nanoscale structure, they identified ways to optimise the material for future use in advanced electronics.