New Nanowire Synthesis Method to Make Flexible Electronics More Affordable

Scientists at Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU), together with colleagues from China and Germany, have created a new type of nanowire using the production of unique transparent electrodes for flexible electronics and helioenergetics.

Flexible nanowire electrodes are lattice structures that transmit over 95 percent of light, which, according to TPU scientists, is comparable to window-glass transparency. According to the researchers, they have a higher conductivity compared to silver nanowire electrodes.

The nanowire’s smoothness and the ratio of its diameter to its length are key characteristics that make it possible to achieve electrode transparency. By varying the concentration of certain ions in solution during synthesis, scientists created a nanowire with a ratio of 1/3100, over 1.5 times that of the best analogues.

According to experts, elements based on such nanowires are in high demand in modern opto-electronics. Transparent electrodes are needed to improve energy efficiency in solar panels, displays and LEDs. These elements also have the properties necessary to create high-quality flexible electronics.

Flexible electronics are being actively developed worldwide. It is notable not only for its advanced functionality, but also, as the TPU experts believe, for its potentially low production cost, which is achieved through using additive technologies.

The study was conducted together with researchers from the University of Electronic Science and Technology of China (Chengdu, PRC) and Chemnitz University of Technology (Chemnitz, Germany).

The study results were published in Nanomaterials magazine.

Sourse: sputniknews.com