Embedded silver-nanowire electrode in an acrylic polymer–silicate nanoparticle composite for highly robust flexible devices

In this study, we explored Ag-nanowire electrodes embedded on the surface of an elastic acrylic polymer–silicate nanoparticle composite resin (iGloss) for mechanically robust flexible electronic devices. Nanoindentation analysis indicated that the iGloss film was suitable for flexible electronic applications, having modulus and hardness values similar to those of a conventional poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrate. In situ resistance monitoring for up to 3000 bending cycles revealed that the Ag-nanowire–iGloss electrode was highly flexible without showing an increase in the resistance. In addition, while a PET substrate carrying Ag nanowires exhibited significantly degraded optical properties with an increase in scratch damage, the Ag-nanowire–iGloss electrode exhibited superior wear resistance, even when it was subjected to a severe mechanical scratch test. Finally, as a possible application, we demonstrated a flexible, organic, light-emitting diode with an Ag-nanowire–iGloss electrode as both the anode and the substrate.