Printing electronic circuits on paper

Could cellulose become the new silicon? Probably not, but research by the Max Plank Institute demonstrates that conducting structures can be created in a sheet of paper. Iron nitrate was applied in a predetermined pattern using an simple inkjet printer. The paper was then heated in an oxygen-free environment until conductive graphite and iron carbide formed in the printed areas. The surrounding paper was reduced to a less conductive amorphous carbon. Researchers envision the production of cheap, flexible microchips that could be used in displays, labeling or clothing.