Large-scale semi-embedded AgNW-based stretchable transparent electrodes via superwettability-induced transfer of AgNWs/ionic liquid onto gradient PDMS

Abstract

Stretchable transparent electrodes (STEs) composed of highly conductive silver nanowires (AgNWs) and mechanically stretchable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) are compelling materials for the development of flexible electronic devices. So far, the fabrication processes of the AgNWs/PDMS-based STEs suffer from low efficiency on a small scale, apart from the limitations and challenges posed by the continuous fabrication processes that are required to exploit these fascinating materials in an industrial context. Here, we have addressed these limitations by using gradient PDMS with a tunable modulus as the stretchable substrate, on which ionic liquid-mediated aligned semi-embedded AgNWs are formed via a scalable superwettability-induced transfer strategy. We have demonstrated the importance of the gradient PDMS in achieving STEs with improved optoelectrical properties, mechanical stretchability, and long-term stability. Furthermore, we have shown the applications of the designed STEs for electro-heating and electroluminescent devices. This promising fabrication process is an industrially relevant alternative to current processes that are either complicated and less effective (for example, stamping transfer) or not compatible with continuous, large-scale production (for example, spin-coating or electrospinning).