Repeatable and High-Efficiency Patterning of Silver Nanowires on PDMS Using Micromilled Aluminum Molds

Abstract

Abstract We present an inexpensive, repeatable, and efficient method of patterning silver nanowires onto polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) using a mold-based approach. A micromilling machine is used to prepare an aluminum mold with a raised pattern so that PDMS cured in these molds is imprinted with the design. A solution of silver nanowires and ethanol can then be injected into the pattern. This method can be used to pattern silver nanowires onto PDMS in any two-dimensional (2D) layout, meaning it can be extended to produce a wide range of PDMS/silver nanowire-based sensors and devices. We demonstrate this by the development of two separate patterns. An intricate logo is developed in order to demonstrate the capability of patterning curved and sharp edges, and a strain gauge is developed in order to demonstrate a functional device.