Shape Dependence of Silver Nanowires on Synthesis Conditions and it's Effect on the Optical and Electrical Properties

As the market share of optoelectronic devices grows yearly, the transparent conductive electrodes that guarantee device performance subsequently gain attention. In order to solve the cost issue of the most commonly commercialised transparent conductive electrodes (indium tin oxide) and the problem that they cannot be used in portable wearable devices, flexible carbon-based hybrid nanomaterials are considered as an alternative. But, it still suffers the complicated synthesis process. Thus, silver nanowire (AgNW) is regarded as the most promising material with advantages of the facile synthesis process, high conductivity and transparency. The synthesis conditions and AgNW morphology are believed to be vital for their optical and electrical properties. This research investigated the effect of synthesis conditions (capping agent molecular weight and compositions, reaction temperature and the stirring rate) and discussed the connection between the optical transmission and electrical resistance of coated films fabricated by AgNW with various morphology. Results show that heavier capping agents with more viscous solutions are more favourable for long wire growth, and mixed capping agent solutions can achieve higher aspect ratios. Both relatively low reaction temperature and no stirring could prevent silver particles nucleation and agglomeration, achieving longer nanowires. The AgNW-coated film by nanowires with longer lengths could have more advantages in the trade-off between conductivity and transparency for better performance. This article illustrates and explains the influence of factors in the synthesis process on its morphology and functionality, creating more possibilities for the development and application of flexible transparent conductive electrodes.