Theory of nanocomposite network transistors for macroelectronics applications

A new class of nanocomposite network materials based on carbon nanotubes or silicon nanowires for thin-film transistors promises significant improvement in the performance of large-area electronics, or macroelectronics. Evaluation of this novel materials technology requires the development of device models. A multicomponent heterogeneous stick-percolation theory is used to show that the key features of this new transistor technology are the consequences of the percolating spatial geometry of the nanosticks (nanotubes, nanorods, or nanowires) that form the channel.