Random 2D nanowire networks: Finite-size effect and the effect of busbar/nanowire contact resistance on their electrical conductivity

Abstract

We have studied the resistance of two-dimensional random percolating networks of zero-width metallic nanowires (rings or sticks). We took into account the nanowire resistance per unit length, the junction (nanowire/nanowire contact) resistance, and the busbar/nanowire contact resistance. Using a mean-field approximation (MFA), we derived the total resistance of the nanoring-based networks as a function of their geometrical and physical parameters. We have proposed a way of accounting for the contribution of the busbar/nanowire contact resistance toward the network resistance. The MFA predictions have been confirmed by our Monte Carlo numerical simulations. Our study evidenced that the busbar/nanowire contact resistance has a significant effect on the electrical conductivity when the junction resistance dominates over the wire resistance.