Silver nanowire networks: Physical properties and potential integration in solar cells

With the growing interest in flexible electronics and the increased utilization of Indium Tin Oxide electrodes for display and photovoltaic applications the need for new materials is emerging. In this work we present the electro-optical properties of Ag nanowire networks as an alternative transparent conductive material. A comparison of different film deposition techniques is made and indicates that the properties of the network are independent of the fabrication method. Analysis of the electrical behavior as a function of nanowire density is made and compared with theoretical results as well as Monte Carlo simulations. Thermal annealing is shown to reduce the sheet resistance from 1000 Omega/sq to 8 Omega/sq; this reduction is achieved by local sintering of the nanowire junctions. Experimental optimization of Ag nanowire electrodes was undertaken and a peak in the electro-optical properties is observed at approximately 100 mg/m(2). Finally a discussion of the potential integration of Ag nanowire networks into solar cells is undertaken; we observe that these electrodes show promise as an emerging transparent conductive material, especially for flexible applications. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.