Mechanics of Transient Electronics

Transient electronics are novel electronics with the unique ability to dissolve completely within a specific time frame. Due to their nontoxic byproducts, these electronics can be used as diagnostic tools inside the human body and as ecofriendly alternatives to traditional electronics, which may release toxic substances when exposed to water. Hence, the most critical aspect of these electronics is their practical disintegration ability, and it is necessary to examine the literature on this topic to understand their current capabilities and potential for future research. Although only partial dissolution of transient electronics was achievable, a recent discovery showed that silicon nanomembranes could undergo hydrolysis, leading to complete dissolution. Furthermore, single-and multi-layered structures have been investigated to prolong the electronics' lifespan. Analytical models have been developed to investigate the dissolution of various functional materials and the devices built from them. When combined with soft, tissue-like electronic devices, these models are valuable in the design of transient electronics, which may offer a feasible method to monitor health or deliver care without being invasive.