Flexible conducting electrodes based on an embedded double-layer structure of gold ribbons and silver nanowires

Abstract

In this study, we present a flexible and highly conductive double-layer structure of gold ribbons (Au RBs) and silver nanowires (Ag NWs) embedded in flexible elastomeric substrates. By using prism-type micro-patterns of n-paraffin (eicosane, C₂₀H₄₂) as templates, Au RBs and Ag NWs were sequentially deposited on bare Si surfaces between the micro-patterns by conducting galvanic displacement (GD) and solution casting. As the resulting double-layer structure was transferred to a thin layer of poly(dimethyl siloxane) (PDMS) by mechanical detachment after removing the micropatterns, the embedded double-layer structures were consequently produced in the PDMS layer. Interestingly, it was observed that the embedded double-layer of Au RBs and Ag NWs improved electrical properties in comparison with the individual values of the components. The resulting flexible conductors were also characterized by detecting changes in electrical signals under various types of mechanical deformation such as bending or stretching. Moreover, an AC voltage-driven electrochemiluminescent (ECL) device was successfully demonstrated by using the embedded double-layer of Au RBs and Ag NWs as an electrode.