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

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.