Transparent conductive coating with filler material

摘要

An article is disclosed comprising a network-like pattern of conductive traces formed of at least partially-joined nanoparticles that define randomly-shaped cells that are generally transparent to light and contain a transparent filler material. In a preferred embodiment, the filler material is conductive such as a metal oxide or a conductive polymer. In another preferred embodiment, the filler material is an adhesive that is can be used to transfer the network from one substrate to another. A preferred method of forming the article is also disclosed wherein an emulsion containing the nanoparticles in the solvent phase and the filler material in the water phase is coated onto a substrate. The emulsion is dried and the nanoparticles self-assemble to form the traces and the filler material is deposited in the cells. An electroluminescent device is also disclosed wherein the article of the invention forms a transparent electrode in the device.

主权项

1. A process of forming an article comprising:
a. applying a liquid emulsion to the surface of a first substrate, wherein the liquid emulsion comprises (i) a discontinuous liquid phase and (ii) a continuous liquid phase that includes conductive nanoparticles and that evaporates more quickly than the discontinuous liquid phase; b. drying the emulsion and subsequently forming a transparent conductive coating comprising a network of traces formed of at least partially-joined nanoparticles defining randomly-shaped cells transparent to light; and c. applying a transparent filler material to at least partially fill at least some of the cells of the coating.