Bendable electronic paper devised

Japanese researchers showed off a bendable electronic paper that uses almost no power whilst displaying images, making it useful for advertising on buildings and vehicles. PHOTO: AFP

Electronics maker Fujitsu said the electronic paper was the first that can preserve images in vivid color and without distortion when they are folded or bent.

It said the paper has an image memory function that means it has no need for electricity other than a minimal amount when changing the picture.

"Electronic paper offers all the same characteristics of paper such as being thin, flexible and lightweight," Fujitsu said in a statement.

It said the product would be suited to public advertisements on trains, buses or buildings as it could be updated more frequently than signs made of traditional paper.

It could also be put to use in stores or restaurants or as part of mobile telephones.

Fujitsu said it will keep testing the paper's practical uses with the aim of commercializing it in the fiscal year ending March 2007.