Solution-processable electrode-material embedding in dynamically inscribed nanopatterns (SPEEDIN) for continuous fabrication of durable flexible devices

Abstract

A facile and scalable lithography-free fabrication technique, named solution-processable electrode-material embedding in dynamically inscribed nanopatterns (SPEEDIN), is developed to produce highly durable electronics. SPEEDIN uniquely utilizes a single continuous flow-line manufacturing process comprised of dynamic nanoinscribing and metal nanoparticle solution coating with selective embedding. Nano- and/or micro-trenches are inscribed into arbitrary polymers, and then an Ag nanoparticle solution is dispersed, soft-baked, doctor-bladed, and hard-baked to embed Ag micro- and nanowire structures into the trenches. Compared to lithographically embossed metal structures, the embedded SPEEDIN architectures can achieve higher durability with comparable optical and electrical properties and are robust and power-efficient even under extreme stresses such as scratching and bending. As one tangible application of SPEEDIN, we demonstrate a flexible metal electrode that can operate at 5 V at temperatures up to 300 °C even under the influence of harsh external stimuli. SPEEDIN can be applied to the scalable fabrication of diverse flexible devices that are reliable for heavy-duty operation in harsh environments involving high temperatures, mechanical deformations, and chemical hazards.

Demonstration of a roll-to-roll-configurable, all-solution-based progressive assembly of flexible transducer devices consisting of functional nanowires on micropatterned electrodes

“…However, we may need to address several upcoming issues. First, the durability of electrodes against delamination and/or crack upon repeated mechanical deformation should be secured; one promising way is to embed the metallic wires in the engraved micropattern, as similarly presented for durable flexible heaters 39 . Second, the electrode design may be possibly modified; instead of the IDT structure, an array of separate micrograting lines can be a better candidate to enhance the bending-dependent sensitivity.…”

Demonstration of a roll-to-roll-configurable, all-solution-based progressive assembly of flexible transducer devices consisting of functional nanowires on micropatterned electrodes

“…However, we may need to address several upcoming issues. First, the durability of electrodes against delamination and/or crack upon repeated mechanical deformation should be secured; one promising way is to embed the metallic wires in the engraved micropattern, as similarly presented for durable exible heaters [35]. Also, the electrode design may be possibly modi ed; instead of the IDT structure, an array of separate micrograting lines can be a better candidate to enhance the bending-dependent sensitivity.…”

Metasurface-empowered spectral and spatial light modulation for disruptive holographic displays

“…However, to move forward to the scalable preparation of metasurfaces with micro-or nanostructures, various non-conventional preparation techniques are required. [207][208][209][210] Thus, a brief review of conventional preparation methods of metasurfaces is followed by a wide-ranging discussion from photolithography using a deep UV (DUV) source, which is widely used in CMOS, to nanoimprint lithography (NIL), which can easily replicate metasurfaces.…”