High resolution patterning of Ag nanowire flexible transparent electrode via electrohydrodynamic jet printing of acrylic polymer-silicate nanoparticle composite overcoating layer

• Published in: Organic electronics Vol. 62; pp. 400 - 406
• Main Authors: Li, Xinlin, Park, Heonkuk, Lee, Myeong Hoon, Hwang, Byungil, Kim, Se Hyun, Lim, Sooman
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.11.2018
• Subjects: Electrodrodynamic (EHD) jet printing process; Mechanical stress; Silver nanowires; Transparent electrode; Electrodrodynamic (EHD) jet printing process; Silver nanowires; Mechanical stress; Transparent electrode
• ISSN: 1566-1199; 1878-5530
• DOI: 10.1016/j.orgel.2018.08.032

In this study, 5-μm scale patterns of silver nanowires (AgNWs) flexible transparent electrode was successfully demonstrated by using a high resolution electrohydrodynamic (EHD) jet printing process. By optimizing the EHD jet printing parameters such as working distance and applied voltage, a mechanically flexible and robust acrylic polymer-silicate nanoparticle composite resin (iGloss®, in short IG) was printed on the AgNWs electrodes via EHD jet printing with a 5-μm-line-width, which, in turn, allowed us to fabricate the finely patterned AgNWs electrodes by removing the AgNWs under the un-covered region by IG. The EHD jet-printed AgNWs/IG electrodes showed the excellent optoelectronic properties, showing the optical transmittance of ∼90% and electrical conductivity of ∼45 ohms/sq. Furthermore, the IG-resin coated AgNWs electrode exhibited superior stabilities when placed under the severe bending, scratch and dipping tests in water and isopropyl alcohol due to the robustness of the IG. [Display omitted] •The stable cone-jet mode via EHD printing process achieved with 1.65 kV of applied voltage at 800 μm of working distance.•Successfully able to fabricate a 5 μm of line width AgNW electrode.•A coating of IG enhanced the mechanical reliability and chemical resistance of Ag nanowire networks.