hankyoreh

South Korean and U.S. engineers said Monday they have developed a low-voltage flexible transistor that could be used to make wristwatch mobile phones and computers that can be worn like clothes.

Transistors, which amplify electric signals, are key components of semiconductors. The manufacturing of flexible transistors has been an important goal of engineers for the past several years, the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) said.

The South Korean partner of the joint project with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology said the new transistor was developed by making a paper-thin polyethylene terephthalate plastic circuit board, engraving it with chromium circuitry and applying an insulating film at room temperature.

"The product is easy to bend, relatively cheap to make, energy-efficient and safe for the user," said KIST researcher Hong Jae-min.

The lower voltage cuts down on energy consumption and reduces the risk of the user receiving an electric shock.

Hong, a researcher at the state-run institute's energy material project, said after more research and tests, products like the flexible transistor will account for 10 percent of the information technology (IT) device market within the next 10 years.

He said it is imperative for South Korea to develop basic technology in these areas in order to lead the world's IT industry in the coming years.

SEOUL, Oct. 8 (Yonhap)