Yellow Light Process vs Silk Screen printing, Which is Better?

In the manufacturing process of touch screen functional films such as ITO conductive films and sensor sensing layers, yellow light technology and screen printing are two mainstream technologies. As the original factory of touch screens, Xinlilai Optoelectronics often receives inquiries from customers about these two processes. Today, we will analyze their differences in detail to help you choose a more suitable solution.
 

1. Yellow Light Craft: A high-precision and high cost "micro carving master"
The yellow light process originates from semiconductor manufacturing and uses photolithography technology to accurately transfer circuit patterns onto substrates. The process includes:
Coating: Coating photoresist on ITO glass/film
Exposure: Exposure with ultraviolet light through a mask
Development: Dissolve the unexposed part to form a precise circuit
Etching: Remove excess ITO to complete the conductive pattern
 

Advantages:
High precision (line width up to 10 μ m or less)
Suitable for complex circuit design (such as high-density touch sensors)
Good product consistency and high yield
 

Limitations:
Large equipment investment and high cost
Long production cycle
 

2. Screen printing technology: an economical and efficient "rapid prototyping" solution
Screen printing uses a touch screen to directly print conductive paste (such as silver paste) onto the substrate, making the process simpler:
Making silk screen printing plates
Squeezing the slurry with a scraper, forming a pattern through the mesh holes
High temperature curing conductive layer
 

Advantages:
Low cost, suitable for large-scale production
Fast production speed and short delivery cycle
Can print multiple materials (glass, PET, PC, etc.)
 

Limitations:
Low accuracy (line width usually>50 μ m)
Pattern complexity is limited
Long term use may cause the slurry to peel off
 

3. How to choose? The key lies in the application scenario
 

1. High end touch screen devices (mobile phones, car touch screen): prioritize yellow light technology to ensure high precision and stability
 

2. Industrial control panel, home appliance touch: silk screen printing has more cost advantages
Flexible touch film (curved screen): Yellow light technology is more suitable for complex curved circuits