Liquid phase synthesis of AgNWs composites modified with Ag2O nanoparticles

Abstract

Silver nanowire transparent electrodes (TCEs) are promising candidates for various applications. This is because of their excellent optoelectronic properties and thermal conductivity. However, the mechanical characteristics of silver nanowires (AgNWs) are not very prominent. In recent years, metal oxide surface modifications have been used to enhance the properties of AgNWs. Meanwhile, most of them have aimed at improving the macroscopic parameters, making little mention of theoretical guidance concerning the modification mechanism and bonding mode. To address this issue, composites of Ag2O nanoparticles grown on the surface of PVP@AgNWs were prepared in the present work through a straightforward liquid-phase synthesis approach, while guaranteeing the initial dispersion. The mechanism of the sodium borohydride (NaBH4) modifier on the surface of PVP@AgNWs and the growth mode between Ag2O and the PVP@AgNWs surface were analyzed using XPS, TEM, and other characterization techniques. This supports the subsequent introduction of metal oxide nanoparticles to modify AgNWs.