Industrially Feasible Approach to Transparent, Flexible, and Conductive Carbon Nanotube Films: Cellulose-Assisted Film Deposition Followed by Solution and Photonic Processing

We report that single-walled nanotube (SWNT) films with precisely controlled thicknesses and transmittances can be produced through the doctor-blade method using SWNT-polymer inks. The matrix polymer around SWNTs were successfully removed by either solution curing or photonic curing at room temperature, which are advantageous processes enabling direct film formation on plastic substrates. Sheet resistances as low as 68-240 Omega/sq at T = 89-98% were obtained. Furthermore, the SWNT film on poly(ethylene naphthalate) exhibited superior flexibility and stability in a flexure endurance test. The method may open a wide range of opportunities for flexible electrical devices. (C) 2013 The Japan Society of Applied Physics