Laser Direct Writing of Conductive Silver Micropatterns on Transparent Flexible Double-Decker-Shaped Polysilsesquioxane Film Using Silver Nanoparticle Ink

Abstract

This paper describes fabrication of conductive, highly adhesive silver (Ag) micropatterns on transparent flexible double-decker-shaped polysilsesquioxane (DDPSQ) film by a laser direct writing technique using a precursor film prepared from liquid-dispersed Ag nanoparticles. The laser-written Ag micropatterns have been characterized by optical microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, surface profilometry, and resistivity measurements. The line width of the Ag micropatterns can be flexibly controlled by changing the objective lens magnification and laser spot size. Using a ×100 objective lens and laser energy density of 170.50 kW/cm2, Ag micropatterns with line width of about 4 μm have been achieved. The Ag micropatterns show excellent adherence to the DDPSQ surface as evaluated by Scotch-tape test. The resistivity of the Ag micropatterns has been determined to be 4.1 × 10−6 Ω cm using the two-point probe method, being almost comparable to that of bulk Ag (1.6 × 10−6 Ω cm). Thus, high-quality, narrow, homogeneous Ag microlines with high conductivity and adhesion can be produced under optimized laser scanning conditions.