Active Transiency: A Novel Approach to Expedite Degradation in Transient Electronics

Information self-destruction module design based on micro thermoelectric power generation and energetic materials

Information self-destruction modules (ISDMs) play a vital role in the information security area. In this paper, an ISDM based on the integration of a micro-thermoelectric generation mechanism (M-TEGM) with energetic materials (EMs) is proposed. On the basis of energy conversion relationship, an open-loop electromotive force is induced, and this energy will drive the EMs to release the detonation wave and realize information storage module self-destruction. During the tests, under the temperature difference (100 K), the open-loop electromotive force (3.86 V) is induced by the M-TEGM and can drive the EMs (0.37 mg copper azide) to generate a detonation wave (GPa) in 3.4 μs, which can physically destroy the information storage modules. This ISDM has advantages that include rapid response times, low drive energy compared with traditional information security technology.

Biologically Safe, Degradable Self-Destruction System for On-Demand, Programmable Transient Electronics

The lifetime of transient electronic components can be programmed via the use of encapsulation/passivation layers or of on-demand, stimuli-responsive polymers (heat, light, or chemicals), but yet most research is limited to slow dissolution rate, hazardous constituents, or byproducts, or complicated synthesis of reactants. Here we present a physicochemical destruction system with dissolvable, nontoxic materials as an efficient, multipurpose platform, where chemically produced bubbles rapidly collapse device structures and acidic molecules accelerate dissolution of functional traces. Extensive studies of composites based on biodegradable polymers (gelatin and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) and harmless blowing agents (organic acid and bicarbonate salt) validate the capability for the desired system. Integration with wearable/recyclable electronic components, fast-degradable device layouts, and wireless microfluidic devices highlights potential applicability toward versatile/multifunctional transient systems. In vivo toxicity tests demonstrate biological safety of the proposed system.