Review of the Versatile Patterning Methods of Ag Nanowire Electrodes

Abstract

To use Ag nanowires for various industries, it is crucial to develop an appropriate patterning method. There are various types of patterning methods, but there has been no comprehensive review discussing and summarizing them. This review paper provides an overview of the various patterning techniques of Ag nanowire electrodes, including photolithography, nanoimprint lithography, inkjet printing, electrohydrodynamic jet printing, and other emerging methods. These transparent electrodes have received significant attention due to their high transparency, low sheet resistance, and flexibility, making them ideal for applications such as flexible electronics, touch screens, and solar cells. Each patterning technique has its benefits and limitations, and its suitability depends on specific application requirements. Photolithography is a well-established technique that can achieve high-resolution patterns, while nanoimprint lithography is a low-cost and versatile method for large-area patterning. Inkjet printing and E-jet printing provide the advantages of high throughput, precise control, and the ability to print on different substrates. Stencil printing, laser direct writing, and electrospinning are emerging techniques that showing high potential for patterning Ag nanowire electrodes. The choice of patterning technique ultimately depends on various factors, such as resolution requirements, cost, substrate compatibility, and throughput.

Recent advances in the construction and application of stretchable PEDOT smart electronic membranes

“…150 By forming micron or even nano-patterned structures, the surface morphology, optical properties, and mechanical properties can be adjusted, and rigid materials can be endowed with stretchability. 151,152…”

Recent Progress in Electrohydrodynamic Jet Printing for Printed Electronics: From 0D to 3D Materials

“…Common 3D nanomaterials include nanometal particles and nanopolymers. Nanocrystalline metal materials have received special attention due to their excellent properties, in particular their high strength, high resistivity, and good plastic deformation [88][89][90][91][92][93][94][95]. Each set of varying dimensional materials exhibits its own excellent characteristics, but at their present state of research and development, each exhibits its own problems as well.…”

“…The storage conditions for different printing materials will vary, but they all have a common storage feature that requires centrifugal agitation ranging from 1 to 24 h, and the solution needs to be placed in a stable environment to ensure stable solution performance, and to make sure that surface tension, homogeneity, and functionality do not change in any way. The process of EHD printing uses a high-strength electric field force to pull the printing material out of the nozzle, as opposed to traditional printing processes which push the material out of the nozzle to form small droplets [89,90]. The process of EHD printing involves using an electric field to create a Taylor cone, which is achieved by applying a potent electric force between the substrate and the nozzle tip.…”

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“…At the same time, it can achieve high conductivity, which is similar to that of hard conductors. However, controlled patterning of such conducting polymer micro/nanostructures or patterns at micro and nanometer scales on surfaces for application in modern electronic devices is still a huge challenge [6][7][8][9]. Efficient fabrication methods which are not only simple and economical but also not limited to the kinds of substrates have gotten a lot of attention.…”