Magnetic Field Patterningof Nickel Nanofibers Using Precursor Ink

Synopsis

Patent US 11,254,156 B2 describes a method for magnetic field patterning of nickel nanofibers using a precursor ink. This invention addresses the challenge of creating precisely aligned and structured metallic nanofiber architectures, which are critical for developing advanced materials with tailored electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. The ability to control the alignment and patterning of these nanofibers at a microscopic level opens up new possibilities for high-performance applications.
A key novel aspect of this patent is the use of a precursor ink containing nickel salt, which is then patterned and dried. The crucial step involves applying a magnetic field to the patterned ink during a thermal treatment (annealing) to align the nickel precursor. Following this, the material is exposed to a reducing atmosphere, such as hydrogen, to reduce the nickel precursor into metallic nickel nanofibers. This magnetic field-assisted alignment during the fabrication process allows for the creation of highly anisotropic structures, where the nanofibers are oriented in a desired direction. This controlled alignment is distinct from conventional methods that often result in randomly oriented or less precisely structured nanomaterials. The patent details how varying the strength and direction of the magnetic field can precisely control the alignment and morphology of the resulting nickel nanofibers, enabling the fabrication of complex patterns like grids, concentric rings, or radial arrangements.
The commercial potential of this invention is significant across industries that demand advanced materials with highly customizable electrical and thermal conductivities, as well as enhanced mechanical strength. The ability to precisely pattern conductive nanofibers offers a pathway to superior device performance and novel functionalities.

Possible applications include:
High-Performance Electronics and Flexible Circuits: The aligned nickel nanofibers can serve as high-conductivity interconnects or components in flexible electronic devices, allowing for the creation of circuits that are both durable and conformable for wearables, smart textiles, and bendable displays.
Thermal Management Systems: Materials with aligned nanofibers can exhibit anisotropic thermal conductivity, meaning heat can be preferentially directed along specific paths. This is valuable for designing highly efficient heat sinks and thermal interface materials in electronic devices, preventing hotspots and improving overall system reliability.
Advanced Sensors: The precise patterning capabilities can lead to the development of highly sensitive and selective sensors. For example, strain sensors, magnetic field sensors, or chemical sensors could be fabricated with improved performance due due to the controlled orientation of the conductive nanofibers.
Electromagnetic Shielding: Materials patterned with aligned nickel nanofibers can be engineered to provide effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, which is crucial for protecting sensitive electronics from external interference and ensuring signal integrity in various applications, from consumer electronics to aerospace.
Additive Manufacturing/3D Printing: The precursor ink approach is compatible with printing technologies, enabling the direct fabrication of complex, high-performance metallic structures with tailored properties. This could revolutionize the manufacturing of intricate components for various industries.
Energy Storage: The aligned nanofiber networks could improve the performance of electrodes in batteries and supercapacitors by providing highly efficient pathways for ion and electron transport, leading to faster charging/discharging and higher energy densities.

This patent offers a robust and scalable method for producing advanced metallic nanofiber structures with controlled alignment and patterning, providing a foundation for innovation in materials science and engineering across a broad spectrum of high-technology applications.