Methods for repairing an electrical circuit; compositions, inks and
equipment for making such repairs; and repair structures formed by the
methods. The method generally includes the steps of: (a) depositing a
composition comprising nanoparticles of an electrically functional
material such that it contacts first and second elements of the circuit;
and (b) sufficiently irradiating at least part of the composition with
light to fuse or bind the nanoparticles to each other. The composition
and ink generally comprise such nanoparticles and a sensitizer having a
light absorption maximum at a wavelength different from that of the
nanoparticles. The apparatus comprises: (1) a deposition apparatus
configured to deposit a liquid film of an electrically functional
material on the circuit; (2) a light source configured to irradiate at
least part of the thin film; and (3) a table configured to secure the
substrate. The structure generally comprises a circuit element having an
electrical disconnect, and a cured electrically functional material (i)
in electrical contact with first and second locations on the circuit
elements adjacent to the disconnect, and (ii) forming a continuous
electrical path between the disconnected circuit portions. The present
invention provides a fast, reliable method for repairing electrical
circuits. The repair structures have electrical properties similar to the
corresponding bulk or sheet materials. The invention is well suited for
use with existing circuit inspection and testing equipment, thereby
providing a "one tool" solution to testing and repairing electrical
circuits.