Inkjet Printing of Silver Nanowires for Stretchable Heaters

Inkjet printing is a promising technique for large-scale printed flexible and stretchable electronics. However, inkjet printing of silver nanowires (AgNWs) still presents many challenges. In this study, inkjet printing of high-concentration AgNW ink on flexible substrates is demonstrated, and liquid polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is then spin-coated on top of the printed AgNWs patterns to form stretchable conductors. We analyzed the relationship between the surface microstructure and electrical property of the stretchable AgNW conductors during various stretching/releasing cycles. Three consecutive stages of the resistance change, including conditioning, equilibrium, and rising stages, can be observed as a result of the morphology change. We also have demonstrated that the inkjet-printed stretchable AgNW conductor can be used as a stretchable heater. All of these characteristics indicate the excellent potential of inkjet printing of AgNWs for developing large-area flexible and stretchable electronics.