Flexible, Optically Transparent, and Conductive Line-and-Space-Patterned Films Prepared by Using a Simple Dewetting Process of Gold Nanoparticle Dispersions

Flexible, optically transparent, and conductive line-and-space patterns were prepared by a simple coating of gold nanoparticle (Au NP) dispersions onto both glass and flexible polymer substrates. The Au NP dispersion was injected into the gap between the two solid substrates, and then the upper substrate was straightly moved by using a hand made apparatus equipped with a stepping motor. Owing to the dewetting of the Au NP dispersion on the substrate, line-and-space patterns were spontaneously formed from the receding meniscus of the Au NP dispersion supplied from the edge of the upper substrate. After sintering, the line-and-space-patterned film showed optical transparency (more than 80%) and in-plane anisotropic conductivity (3.82×103 Scm-1).