Electronic materials for solution-processed TFTs

Abstract

Sol–gel processed thin-film transistors (TFTs) have emerged as a promising technology for next-generationelectronics. TFTs are widely used as switching devices in a various applications, like sensors, displays, memory, and logic circuits. The use of solution process technology offers several advantages, such as low cost, simple process, high throughput, homogeneity, and excellent compositional control. The solution-based fabrication process enables the deposition of thin films on a wide range of substrates, including flexible and curved surfaces. Recently, significant progress has been made in the field of oxide semiconductors and oxide dielectrics for solution-processed TFTs. These developments have led to improved device performance, including higher operating voltage, mobility, and on/off current ratio, among other factors. In this article, we discuss the progress made in the development of oxide semiconductors and oxide dielectrics for sol–gel processed TFTs. This study aims to present a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in sol–gel processed TFTs. First, we present comprehensive summary of the key parameters of solution-processed metal oxides that are critical for building high-performance thin film transistors (TFTs), including sol–gel derived binary and ternary metal oxide dielectrics and semiconductors. Following that a detailed performance analysis of solution-processed TFTs in terms of their operating voltage, mobility, and on/off current ratio (Ion/Ioff), among other factors has been summarized. Afterward, the applications of solution-processed TFTs fabricated using various techniques (e.g., spin coating, screen printing, and inkjet printing) are also discussed. We explore the function of sol–gel processed high-k dielectrics and the challenges associated with their growth for fabrication of high-performance TFTs. Finally, the future perspectives on how to improve the performance of solution-processed TFTs. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the potential of solution-processed materials for use in next-generation portable electronics.