The Role of Network Topology on Electro‐Thermal and Optical Characteristics of Transparent Thermal Heaters Based on Embedded Random Metallic Mesh

Abstract

AbstractTransparent thermal heaters based on metallic networks have gained considerable attention in the last few years as a result of their superior response time, low sheet resistance, and low cost of manufacturing. To increase the mechanical stability and reliability of the thermal heater, it is desirable to embed the metallic network in some form of matrix. Embedding the network, however, changes the nature of thermal conduction making both in‐plane and out‐of‐plane thermal conduction important for ensuring reliability and uniform thermal distribution. The performance of embedded thermal heaters is also significantly influenced by the geometry of the metallic network, both in terms of optical transparency and thermal performance. In this paper, a coupled electro‐thermal model and an electromagnetic model are developed to investigate the properties of an embedded metallic mesh in a polymer matrix. Infrared thermal imaging and ultraviolet‐visible spectrophotometry are used to quantify thermal transport and transparency in the system and to verify the performance of finite element models. A systematic study is then performed to assess the role of network topology both on in‐plane and out‐of‐plane thermal distribution and optical performance. According to numerical analysis, a structure‐property relationship is established which can provide desirable network configurations to optimize performance.