Images of Research: Innovation for the global good

The art of greening electronics

Category: Closing the loop

A colourful microscope image of copper

This microscopic image of copper may hold the key to revolutionising the microelectronics industry. As the main metallic coating for electrical connections, current copper production is abundant but environmentally damaging. However, Strathclyde is investigating the use of deep eutectic solvents – a type of organic salt – to create metals with better properties. This could eliminate the need for many toxic chemicals currently used, decrease process water consumption and reduce manufacturing costs.

Entrant: Priscila Valverde Armas , Civil and Environmental Engineering

Copyright: Priscila Valverde Armas

Funding: The Secretariat of Higher Education, Science, Technology and Innovation (SENESCYT)