Nanosphere Lithography: A Versatile Approach to Develop Transparent Conductive Films for Optoelectronic Applications

Transparent conductive films (TCFs) are irreplaceable components in most optoelectronic applications such as solar cells, organic light-emitting diodes, sensors, smart windows, and bioelectronics. The shortcomings of existing traditional transparent conductors demand the development of new material systems that are both transparent and electrically conductive, with variable functionality to meet the requirements of new generation optoelectronic devices. In this respect, TCFs with periodic or irregular nanomesh structures have recently emerged as promising candidates, which possess superior mechanical properties in comparison with conventional metal oxide TCFs. Among the methods for nanomesh TCFs fabrication, nanosphere lithography (NSL) has proven to be a versatile platform, with which a wide range of morphologically distinct nanomesh TCFs have been demonstrated. These materials are not only functionally diverse, but also have advantages in terms of device compatibility. This review provides a comprehensive description of the NSL process and its most relevant derivatives to fabricate nanomesh TCFs. The structure-property relationships of these materials are elaborated and an overview of their application in different technologies across disciplines related to optoelectronics is given. It is concluded with a perspective on current shortcomings and future directions to further advance the field.

Automated summary

Transparent conductive films (TCFs) are indispensable in optoelectronic applications, and the development of new materials that combine transparency, electrical conductivity, and variable functionality is needed. Nanomesh TCFs, with periodic or irregular structures, have emerged as promising candidates with superior mechanical properties compared to traditional metal oxide TCFs. Nanosphere lithography (NSL) is a versatile platform for fabricating nanomesh TCFs, offering a wide range of materials with diverse functions and device compatibility. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the NSL process, structure-property relationships of nanomesh TCFs, and their applications in various optoelectronic technologies.