Improved conductive ink composition

Abstract

Improved conductive ink compositions are provided. The improved conductive ink compositions include a silver complex formed by mixing a silver carboxylate, specifically a silver decanoate isomer, and at least one solubilizing agent, particularly the at least one solubilizing agent includes a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof. The silver carboxylate of the subject ink composition is decarboxylated at a temperature of 250° C. or less, optionally in the presence of an adhesion promoter and / or an acid stabilizer, to form a conductive structure. Methods of making a conductive structure are also provided, including methods in which the compositions of the present disclosure are applied to a substrate by various techniques.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 316,949, filed March 4, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 370,343, filed August 3, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 384,202, filed November 17, 2022, the disclosures of each of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

[0002] FIELD OF THEINVENTION The present disclosure relates generally to novel conductive ink compositions and methods of their preparation and use. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to improved ink compositions that include silver carboxylates and are particle-free, forming conductive structures at low temperatures. [Background technology]

[0003] 2. Background of the Invention The electronics, display and energy industries rely on the production and use of conductive material coatings and patterns to form circuits on organic and inorganic substrates. Printed electronics offers an attractive alternative to conventional technologies by enabling the creation of large-area flexible devices at low cost. There is a great need for highly conductive materials with fine-scale features in modern electronics such as solar cell electrodes, flexible displays, radio frequency identification tags, antennas and many others. In an effort to make these highly technological devices more accessible, the substrates used typically have relatively low temperature resilience and require low processing temperatures to maintain their integrity.

[0004] Most commercially produced conductive inks are specifically designed for inkjet, screen printing or roll-to-roll processing methods to process large areas with fine-scale features in a short time. These inks have quite different viscosity and composition parameters. Particle-based inks are based on conductive metal particles, which are typically synthesized separately and then incorporated into the ink formulation. The resulting ink is then tailored for the specific particle processing.

[0005] Typically, precursor-based inks are based on thermally unstable precursor complexes that undergo reduction to conductive metals upon heating. Conventional particle- and precursor-based methods generally rely on high temperatures to form conductive coatings and therefore may not be compatible with substrates that require low processing temperatures to maintain their integrity. For example, silver compounds containing carbamates or other relatively low molecular weight ligands (compared to polymeric stabilizers) have been synthesized that decompose at temperatures around 150°C to produce electrical conductivities approaching that of bulk silver. Unfortunately, even at these temperatures, the inks may be incompatible with many plastic and paper substrates commonly used for flexible electronics and biomedical devices.

[0006] International Publication No. WO2015 / 160938 provides conductive ink compositions, methods of manufacture and use, and conductive structures prepared using the ink compositions. Some examples of the ink compositions include a silver carboxylate, at least one solubilizing agent, and a catalyst that decarboxylates the silver carboxylate to form a conductive structure. The decarboxylation reaction can occur at low temperatures.

[0007] European Patent No. EP3597707B1 provides a conductive ink composition for inkjet or screen printing methods. The conductive ink composition comprises a silver carboxylate, a terpene and at least one carboxylic acid as a further component. The ink composition can be used in a method for producing a pattern on a substrate. International Publication Nos. WO2015 / 192248A1 and WO2018 / 146617A1 provide conductive ink compositions containing a silver carboxylate, a solvent, and a polymer binder.

[0008] Despite these and other advances in the field, there continues to be a need for particle-free conductive ink compositions with improved properties. It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide improved conductive ink compositions that are particle-free and stable, and methods for their preparation and use, particularly compositions that can form conductive structures at low temperatures, ideally without catalysts. It is also an object of the present invention to provide improved conductive ink compositions that are particle-free and stable, and methods for their preparation and use, where the compositions have reasonable adhesion to various substrates for various purposes. Such purposes may include those related to inkjet printing epoxy molding compounds (EMC) with both thin and thick layers, solder resist features, silver nanowire substrates (SNW), and the like. Such conductive inks can be used on various substrates to form conductive structures with excellent physical, mechanical, and electrical properties. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0009] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 160938 [Patent Document 2] European Patent No. 3597707 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2015 / 192248 [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2018 / 146617 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] Summary of the Invention The present disclosure addresses these and other considerations by providing, in one aspect, a conductive ink composition comprising a silver complex formed by combining silver decanoate and at least one solubilizing agent, where the at least one solubilizing agent comprises a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof, and where the silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature at or below 250° C. to form a conductive structure.

[0011] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, hi some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises multiple α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

[0012] In some embodiments, silver decanoate has the structure: [ka] wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms. In more specific embodiments, R1 and R2 are each independently methyl or ethyl. In other more specific embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises silver 2,2-dimethyloctanoate, silver 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoate, silver 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoate, silver 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoate, silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate, silver 2-butylhexanoate, or a combination thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is particle-free.

[0014] In some embodiments, the terpene is a purified terpene or the terpenoid is a purified terpenoid.

[0015] In some embodiments, the terpene is pinene or limonene.

[0016] In some embodiments, the terpenoid is terpineol.

[0017] In some embodiments, the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene and terpineol, more specifically, the limonene is refined limonene and the terpineol is refined terpineol.

[0018] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises an adhesion promoter. In specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane, more specifically, the adhesion promoter comprises an alkoxysilane, and even more specifically, the adhesion promoter comprises an ethoxysilyl-modified polyalkene. In some specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises a triethoxysilyl-modified poly-1,2-butadiene.

[0019] In other specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises a dendrimer compound, more specifically a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, even more specifically a second generation poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, or a hydrophobe-substituted poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, such as a C12 hydrophobe.

[0020] In some embodiments, the composition further comprises an acid stabilizer, specifically, the acid stabilizer is C 6~12 An α-branched alkanoic acid, more specifically, the acid stabilizer is an α-branched decanoic acid isomer, even more specifically, the acid stabilizer is 2,2-dimethylhexanoic acid or 2,2-dimethylnonanoic acid.

[0021] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene and terpineol, and the conductive ink composition further comprises an adhesion promoter comprising a reactive silane. In specific embodiments, the composition further comprises an acid stabilizer.

[0022] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene, and the conductive ink composition further comprises an acid stabilizer.

[0023] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a concentration of silver decanoate from about 1 to about 50 weight percent.

[0024] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise.

[0025] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of from about 50 centipoise to about 1000 centipoise.

[0026] In some embodiments, the conductive structures have a resistivity of 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, or 0.5 ohms per square or less.

[0027] In some embodiments, the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 1%.

[0028] In some embodiments, silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 180° C. or less to form the conductive structure.

[0029] In some embodiments, silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 150° C. or less to form the conductive structure.

[0030] In another aspect, there is provided a method of making a conductive ink composition, comprising the steps of: Dissolving the silver decanoate in at least one solvent to form a conductive ink composition. Including, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer and the at least one solubilizing agent comprises a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof; A method is provided.

[0031] In some embodiments, silver decanoate does not include silver n-decanoate.

[0032] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition does not include a catalyst. More specifically, in some embodiments, the conductive ink composition does not include an amine-containing catalyst.

[0033] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is particle-free.

[0034] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises multiple α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

[0035] In some embodiments, silver decanoate has the structure: [ka] wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms. has.

[0036] In some specific embodiments, R1 and R2 are each independently methyl or ethyl. In some specific embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises silver 2,2-dimethyloctanoate, silver 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoate, silver 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoate, silver 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoate, silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate, silver 2-butylhexanoate, or a combination thereof.

[0037] In some embodiments, the terpene is a purified terpene or the terpenoid is a purified terpenoid.

[0038] In some embodiments, the terpene is pinene or limonene.

[0039] In some embodiments, the terpenoid is terpineol.

[0040] In some embodiments, the at least one dissolution agent comprises limonene and terpineol. More specifically, the limonene is refined limonene and the terpineol is refined terpineol.

[0041] In some embodiments, the method includes the further step of dissolving the adhesion promoter in at least one dissolving agent. Specifically, the adhesion promoter may include a reactive silane, more specifically an alkoxysilane, even more specifically an ethoxysilyl-modified polyalkene, even more specifically a triethoxysilyl-modified poly-1,2-butadiene. In other specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter may include a dendrimer compound, more specifically a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, even more specifically a second generation poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, or a hydrophobe-substituted poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, such as a C12 hydrophobe.

[0042] In some embodiments, the method includes the further step of dissolving the acid stabilizer in at least one dissolving agent. 6~12 An α-branched alkanoic acid, more specifically, the acid stabilizer is an α-branched decanoic acid isomer, even more specifically, the acid stabilizer is 2,2-dimethylhexanoic acid or 2,2-dimethylnonanoic acid.

[0043] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene and terpineol, and the method comprises the further step of dissolving an adhesion promoter comprising a reactive silane in the solubilizing agent, more particularly, dissolving an acid stabilizer in the solubilizing agent.

[0044] In some embodiments, the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene, and the method comprises the further step of dissolving an acid stabilizer in the solubilizing agent.

[0045] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a concentration of silver decanoate from about 1 to about 50 weight percent.

[0046] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise.

[0047] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of from about 50 centipoise to about 1000 centipoise.

[0048] In some embodiments, silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 180° C. or less to form the conductive structure.

[0049] In some embodiments, silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 150° C. or less to form the conductive structure.

[0050] In another aspect, a method of forming a conductive structure includes the steps of: applying any of the conductive ink compositions described above to a substrate; heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate to a temperature of about 250° C. or less to form a conductive structure; A method is provided, comprising:

[0051] In yet another aspect, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition comprising a silver complex formed by combining silver decanoate, at least one solubilizing agent, and an adhesion promoter comprising a reactive silane or epoxide, wherein the silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature at or below 250° C. to form a conductive structure.

[0052] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer.

[0053] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises multiple α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

[0054] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a process for the preparation of silver decanoate having the structure: [ka] wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms. The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition having the following formula:

[0055] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition wherein R1 and R2 are each independently methyl or ethyl.

[0056] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises silver 2,2-dimethyloctanoate, silver 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoate, silver 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoate, silver 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoate, silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate, silver 2-butylhexanoate, or a combination thereof.

[0057] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to particle-free conductive ink compositions.

[0058] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein at least one solubilizing agent comprises a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof.

[0059] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the terpene is pinene or limonene.

[0060] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the terpenoid is terpineol.

[0061] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the at least one solubilizing agent comprises limonene and terpineol.

[0062] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the limonene is purified limonene and the terpineol is purified terpineol.

[0063] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, where the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane and an epoxide.

[0064] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for preparing an adhesion promoter having the structure of Formula I: [ka] (wherein each R' is independently a C1-C6 alkyl group and L' is an alkyl linker group). The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition,

[0065] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group.

[0066] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a pulmonary artery disease in which L′ is C2 to C 10 The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition in which the linker group is an alkyl group.

[0067] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a pulmonary arthritis in which L′ is a substituted C 10 The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition in which the linker group is an alkyl group.

[0068] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to conductive ink compositions in which one or more carbon atoms of L' are replaced with a heteroatom.

[0069] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for preparing an adhesion promoter having the structure of Formula II: [ka] (wherein each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group, X is a heteroatom, and each n is independently 1 to 6.) The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition,

[0070] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition where each R' is a methyl group, X is oxygen, and each n is independently 1 to 3.

[0071] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a process for preparing a composition comprising: [ka] The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition,

[0072] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the adhesion promoter comprises an alkoxysilane.

[0073] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a methoxysilyl or ethoxysilyl group.

[0074] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a dendrimer compound, more specifically a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, even more specifically a second generation poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, or a hydrophobe-substituted poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, such as a C12 hydrophobe.

[0075] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition further comprising an acid stabilizer.

[0076] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a vascular endothelial cell comprising administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of at least one acidic substance comprising: 6~12 The present invention relates to a conductive ink composition in which the alkanoic acid is an α-branched alkanoic acid.

[0077] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the acid stabilizer is an α-branched decanoic acid isomer.

[0078] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the acid stabilizer is 2,2-dimethylhexanoic acid or 2,2-dimethylnonanoic acid.

[0079] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizer comprises limonene and terpineol, and the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane and an epoxide.

[0080] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition further comprising an acid stabilizer.

[0081] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizer comprises limonene, and the conductive ink composition further comprises an acid stabilizer.

[0082] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition having a concentration of silver decanoate from about 1 to about 50 weight percent.

[0083] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition having a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise.

[0084] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to conductive ink compositions, wherein the conductive structures have a resistivity of 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, or 0.5 ohms per square or less.

[0085] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to conductive ink compositions, wherein the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 1%.

[0086] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition in which silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature at or below 180° C. to form conductive structures.

[0087] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a conductive ink composition in which silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature at or below 150° C. to form conductive structures.

[0088] In another aspect, the technology described herein relates to a method of making a conductive ink composition comprising dissolving silver decanoate and an adhesion promoter in at least one solubilizing agent to form a conductive ink composition, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer and the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane or epoxide.

[0089] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods wherein the silver decanoate comprises multiple α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

[0090] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a process for the preparation of silver decanoate having the structure: [ka] wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms. The present invention relates to a method comprising the steps of:

[0091] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein R1 and R2 are each independently methyl or ethyl.

[0092] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the silver decanoate comprises silver 2,2-dimethyloctanoate, silver 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoate, silver 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoate, silver 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoate, silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate, silver 2-butylhexanoate, or combinations thereof.

[0093] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the at least one lysis agent comprises a terpene or a terpenoid.

[0094] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods wherein the terpene is pinene or limonene.

[0095] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the terpenoid is terpineol.

[0096] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the at least one lysis agent comprises limonene or terpineol.

[0097] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods wherein the limonene is purified limonene and the terpineol is purified terpineol.

[0098] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane and an epoxide.

[0099] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for preparing an adhesion promoter having the structure of Formula I: [ka] (wherein each R' is independently a C1-C6 alkyl group and L' is an alkyl linker group). This relates to a method.

[0100] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group.

[0101] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a pulmonary artery disease in which L′ is C2 to C 10 is an alkyl linker group.

[0102] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a pulmonary arthritis in which L′ is a substituted C 10 is an alkyl linker group.

[0103] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein one or more carbon atoms of L' are replaced with a heteroatom.

[0104] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for preparing an adhesion promoter having the structure of Formula II: [ka] (wherein each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group, X is a heteroatom, and each n is independently 1 to 6.) This relates to a method.

[0105] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where each R' is a methyl group, X is oxygen, and each n is independently 1 to 3.

[0106] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a process for preparing a composition comprising: [ka] This relates to a method.

[0107] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where the adhesion promoter comprises an alkoxysilane.

[0108] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where the adhesion promoter comprises a methoxysilyl or ethoxysilyl group.

[0109] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a dendrimer compound, more specifically a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, even more specifically a second generation poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, or a hydrophobe-substituted poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound, such as a C12 hydrophobe.

[0110] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods that include the additional step of dissolving an acid stabilizer in at least one dissolving agent.

[0111] In some embodiments, the technology described herein provides a method for treating a vascular endothelial cell comprising administering to a patient a therapeutically effective amount of at least one acidic substance comprising: 6~12 The compound is an α-branched alkanoic acid.

[0112] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the acid stabilizer is an α-branched decanoic acid isomer.

[0113] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the acid stabilizer is 2,2-dimethylhexanoic acid or 2,2-dimethylnonanoic acid.

[0114] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the at least one lysis agent comprises limonene or terpineol.

[0115] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods that include the additional step of dissolving an acid stabilizer in at least one dissolving agent.

[0116] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the conductive ink composition has a concentration of silver decanoate from about 1 to about 50 weight percent.

[0117] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method, wherein the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise.

[0118] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods in which silver decanoate is decarboxylated at temperatures at or below 180° C. to form conductive structures.

[0119] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where silver decanoate is decarboxylated at temperatures at or below 150° C. to form conductive structures.

[0120] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to a method of applying any of the above conductive ink compositions to a substrate and heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate to a temperature of about 250° C. or less to form a conductive structure.

[0121] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods where the conductive ink composition is applied by gravure, flexography, rotary screen printing, screen printing, aerosol jet printing, inkjet printing, airbrush, Mayer rod coating, flood coating, 3D printing, dispenser or by slot-die coating, spin coating, roll-to-roll printing, including electrohydrodynamic printing.

[0122] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the conductive structures have a resistivity of 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, or 0.5 ohms per square or less.

[0123] In some embodiments, the technology described herein relates to methods, wherein the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 1%. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0124] [Figure 1-1] 1A-1C show the time course of in situ thermal curing at various temperatures of a conductive ink composition containing a non-aromatic solubilizer. [Figure 1-2] Same as above.

[0125] [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 shows the time course of in situ thermal cure at 135° C. of ink compositions containing increasing concentrations of acid stabilizer.

[0126] [Diagram 3] 3A and 3B show the time course of the in situ thermal cure of the ink composition with and without the adhesion promoter.

[0127] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 summarizes the features and properties of conductive ink formulations containing non-aromatic solvents.

[0128] [Figure 5-1] 5A-5D show the physical properties and stability of conductive ink formulations containing preferred adhesion promoters. [Figure 5-2] Same as above.

[0129] [Figure 6-1] 6A-6F show exemplary conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing preferred adhesion promoters. [Figure 6-2] Same as above.

[0130] [Figure 7] 7A-7B show exemplary conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing preferred adhesion promoters.

[0131] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows the physical and electrical properties of conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing alternative preferred adhesion promoters.

[0132] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 shows the stability of conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing alternative preferred adhesion promoters.

[0133] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 shows high temperature storage (HTS) testing of conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing alternative preferred adhesion promoters.

[0134] [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an image of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in a process for printing a new preparation of an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter.

[0135] [Figure 12] Figures 12A and 12B are images of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in a process of printing a preparation of an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter stored under various conditions, and Figure 12C shows the physical and electrical properties of a conductive structure prepared from an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter on two different substrates.

[0136] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows an image of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in a process of printing an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter that has been stored at elevated temperatures.

[0137] [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows the properties of conductive structures prepared on various substrates from ink formulations containing alternative preferred adhesion promoters stored at low temperatures.

[0138] [Figure 15] Figures 15A and 15B illustrate the stability of formulation 22 over time at 60° C. and 40° C., respectively. Figure 15C shows the viscosity and surface tension for various ink formulations.

[0139] [Figure 16] Figure 16A shows the effect of water on the stability of an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter stored at low temperature, and Figure 16B shows the effect of water on the stability of an ink formulation containing an alternative preferred adhesion promoter stored at high temperature.

[0140] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows the properties of conductive structures prepared using ink formulations containing alternative preferred adhesion promoters that were processed with water. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0141] Detailed Description of the Invention Ink compositions derived from silver metal precursors are described in PCT International Publication No. WO2013 / 096664A1, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Further conductive ink compositions are described, for example, in PCT International Publication No. WO2015 / 160938A1, which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. These ink compositions advantageously do not contain metal particles, but typically require a catalyst, such as an amine-containing catalyst, to promote decarboxylation of the silver complexes at low temperatures and thus the formation of conductive metal structures.

[0142] Disclosed herein is an improved conductive ink composition formed by making a silver complex that does not require high decomposition temperatures. The conductive ink composition of the present disclosure advantageously comprises a silver decanoate that includes at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer. In a preferred embodiment, the improved conductive ink composition does not require a catalyst to decarboxylate the silver complex. By using a lower decomposition temperature and a reduced tack time to form the conductive structures, the improved conductive ink composition is compatible with more substrates that do not require high processing temperatures to maintain their integrity. Furthermore, the method for making the conductive ink composition is simple and results in a high yield of conductive structures.

[0143] The conductive ink composition can have a low viscosity, so that the conductive ink composition is compatible with a wide range of patterning techniques, including slot-die coating, spin coating, roll-to-roll printing, including gravure, flexography, rotary screen printing, screen printing, aerosol jet printing, inkjet printing, airbrush, Mayer rod coating, flood coating, 3D printing, and electrohydrodynamic printing. In particular, the ink is compatible with inkjet printing, dip coating, and spray coating. The patterned features can be highly conductive at room temperature and can achieve bulk conductivity upon decomposition at moderate temperatures (e.g., less than about 100° C. in some cases). Finally, the ink composition can remain stable at room temperature for several months without particle precipitation.

[0144] Thus, a conductive ink composition (also referred to as a "conductive ink" or "ink") has been created for printing highly conductive features at low temperatures. Such inks can be stable, particle-free, and suitable for a wide range of patterning techniques. In some embodiments, a "particle-free" ink is an ink that does not contain any particles with a diameter greater than about 10 nm. In some embodiments, a "particle-free" ink is an ink that has less than about 1% particles, preferably less than about 0.1% particles. A silver salt is used in the ink as a precursor material, which ultimately results in the silver in the conductive silver coating, line, or pattern. Any suitable silver precursor may be used.

[0145] In one aspect, the conductive ink composition includes a silver complex formed by mixing a silver carboxylate and at least one solubilizing agent. In a preferred embodiment, the silver carboxylate is soluble in the solubilizing agent. Solubility, as known to those skilled in the art, is the property of a substance, such as a silver carboxylate, dissolving in a solvent, such as a solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, the silver complex is applied to the substrate first. In some embodiments, the silver carboxylate is converted to the conductive silver structure at a temperature of about 250° C. or less. In some embodiments, the silver carboxylate is converted to the conductive silver structure at a temperature of about 100° C. or less. In some embodiments, the silver carboxylate is converted to the conductive silver structures at a temperature of about 220°C, about 210°C or less, about 190°C or less, about 180°C or less, about 170°C or less, about 160°C or less, about 150°C or less, about 140°C or less, about 130°C or less, about 120°C or less, about 110°C or less, about 90°C or less, about 80°C or less, about 70°C or less, about 60°C or less, or about 50°C or less.

[0146] Silver carboxylate The silver carboxylate of the present conductive ink composition comprises a silver salt of an aliphatic carboxylic acid. In some embodiments, the silver carboxylate comprises a silver salt of a long chain aliphatic carboxylic acid. In specific embodiments, the silver carboxylate comprises a silver salt of a long chain aliphatic carboxylic acid having from 5 to 15 carbon atoms, from 8 to 12 carbon atoms, or even from 9 to 11 carbon atoms.

[0147] In a preferred embodiment, the silver carboxylate of the present composition comprises a specific silver decanoate isomer or a mixture of silver decanoate isomers. For example, in some embodiments, at least one decanoic acid isomer used to form the silver decanoate of the conductive ink composition has the following structure: [ka] wherein R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms. Thus, silver decanoate formed from the above decanoic acid isomers has the following structure: [ka] (wherein the R1, R2, and R3 groups have the definitions provided above). Such structures are referred to herein as α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

[0148] In some embodiments, the R1 and R2 groups of the α-branched silver decanoate isomer are each independently methyl or ethyl.

[0149] In specific embodiments, the at least one decanoic acid isomer used to form the silver decanoate of the present conductive ink composition can be, for example, 2,2-dimethyloctanoic acid, 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoic acid, 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoic acid, 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoic acid, 2,2-diethylhexanoic acid, 2-butylhexanoic acid, or any combination of these α-branched decanoic acid isomers.

[0150] The corresponding silver carboxylates can be formed from each of these decanoic acid isomers as described in the Examples section and as would be understood by one of skill in the art. Specifically, the silver decanoate isomer can therefore be, for example, an α-branched silver decanoate isomer, such as silver 2,2-dimethyloctanoate, silver 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoate, silver 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoate, silver 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoate, silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate, silver 2-butylhexanoate, or any combination of these compounds.

[0151] The silver carboxylate is preferably not formed from a straight chain alkanoic acid, for example, the silver carboxylate is preferably not formed from n-decanoic acid.

[0152] In embodiments, about 0.4 grams to about 1.0 grams of silver carboxylate, specifically silver decanoate containing at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, is dissolved per gram of dissolving agent. In some embodiments, about 0.4 grams, about 0.5 grams, about 0.6 grams, about 0.7 grams, about 0.8 grams, about 0.9 grams, or even about 1.0 grams of silver carboxylate, specifically at least one or more α-branched silver decanoate isomers, is dissolved per gram of dissolving agent.

[0153] Solubilizer As mentioned above, the conductive ink composition includes at least one solubilizing agent capable of dissolving the silver carboxylate of the present disclosure, and preferably completely dissolving the silver carboxylate to produce a particle-free conductive ink composition. Specifically, the solubilizing agent acts as a stabilizer and solvent, but is not intended to act as a reducing agent for the silver carboxylate. In some embodiments, the solubilizing agent has a boiling point of about 250° C. or less. In some embodiments, the solubilizing agent has a boiling point of about 200° C. or less. In some embodiments, the solubilizing agent has a boiling point of about 100° C. or less. In some embodiments, the lysis agent has a boiling point of about 220°C or less, about 210°C or less, about 190°C or less, about 180°C or less, about 170°C or less, about 160°C or less, about 150°C or less, about 140°C or less, about 130°C or less, about 120°C or less, about 110°C or less, about 90°C or less, about 80°C or less, about 70°C or less, about 60°C or less, or about 50°C or less.

[0154] In some embodiments, the solubilizer may be selected based on the type of silver carboxylate used to make the ink composition. In some embodiments, the solubilizer may be selected based on the boiling point / tack time of a particular application. In some embodiments, the solubilizer may be selected based on the type of substrate to which the ink composition will be applied, with regard to compatibility and wetting issues. For example, for deposition methods such as inkjet printing or e-jet, higher stability is generally preferred, and therefore it may be preferable to use a solubilizer with a higher boiling point.

[0155] In some embodiments, the lysing agent comprises an alkane hydrocarbon, a carbamate, an alkene, a cyclic hydrocarbon, an aromatic hydrocarbon, an amine, a polyamine, an amide, an ether, an ester, an alcohol, a thiol, a thioether, a phosphine, or a combination thereof.

[0156] In some embodiments, the dissolution agent comprises an organic solvent. 5~20 For example, the solubility agent can include pentane, hexane, heptane, octane, nonane, decane, undecane, dodecane, tridecane, tetradecane, pentadecane, hexadecane, octadecane, nonadecane, or icosane.

[0157] In some embodiments, the lysis agent is C 6~10 In some embodiments, the solubility agent comprises one or more cyclic hydrocarbons having a length of 100 to 200 nm. For example, the solubility agent may comprise cyclohexane, cycloheptane, cyclooctane, cyclononane, cyclodecane, or decalin. In some embodiments, the solubility agent comprises an aromatic hydrocarbon. For example, the solubility agent may comprise benzene, toluene, xylene, or tetralin. In some embodiments, the solubility agent comprises xylene.

[0158] In some embodiments, the lysing agent comprises a linear ether, a branched ether, or a cyclic ether. In some embodiments, the lysing agent comprises a linear or branched ether. For example, the lysing agent may comprise dimethyl ether, diethyl ether, dipropyl ether, dibutyl ether, or methyl t-butyl ether. In some embodiments, the lysing agent comprises one or more cyclic ethers. For example, the lysing agent may comprise tetrahydrofuran, tetrahydropyran, dihydropyran, or 1,4-dioxane.

[0159] In some embodiments, the dissolving agent comprises an alcohol. In some embodiments, the dissolving agent comprises a primary alcohol, a secondary alcohol, or a tertiary alcohol. In some embodiments, the alcohol comprises propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, octanol, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the alcohol comprises 1-propanol, 2-propanol, 1-methoxy-2-propanol, 1-butanol, 2-butanol, 1-pentanol, 2-pentanol, 3-pentanol, 1-hexanol, 2-hexanol, 3-hexanol, 1-octanol, 2-octanol, 3-octanol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, cyclopentanol, terpineol, or a combination thereof.

[0160] In some embodiments, the lysis agent comprises a ketone. More specifically, in some embodiments, the lysis agent comprises actylacetone.

[0161] The solubilizers used in the conductive ink composition are ideally suitable for use in mass production on an industrial scale. In some embodiments, it may therefore be advantageous for the solubilizer to be non-toxic and / or less damaging to the environment than many commonly used organic solvents. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the solubilizer to have a higher flash point than many commonly used organic solvents. In some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the solubilizer to be subject to less regulation than many commonly used organic solvents. For example, aromatic hydrocarbons such as xylene, toluene, mesitylene, etc. are highly regulated in most industrialized countries. Therefore, the use of alternatives to these solvents may be advantageous. In addition, conductive inks formulated from aromatic hydrocarbons may have a flash point below 60° C. and therefore are typically not acceptable in mass production environments. Thus, in some embodiments, the solubilizers of the conductive ink composition do not include aromatic hydrocarbons.

[0162] In a preferred embodiment, the dissolution agent comprises a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof. For example, in some embodiments, the dissolution agent comprises pinene, limonene, particularly D-limonene, terpineol, or a combination thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the dissolution agent comprises limonene. In another preferred embodiment, the dissolution agent comprises terpineol. In yet another preferred embodiment, the dissolution agent comprises a combination of limonene and terpineol.

[0163] Not all terpenes and terpenoids are suitable for use in the conductive ink compositions of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the solubilizer does not include alpha-terpinene, gamma-terpinene, terpinolene, or terpene-4-ol. Alternatively or in addition, in some embodiments, it may be advantageous for the solubilizer to be a purified form of the solubilizer. For example, in some embodiments, the solubilizer is purified terpineol, purified limonene, or a combination of purified terpineol and purified limonene. A purified solubilizer is understood to be at least 95% pure, at least 97% pure, at least 98% pure, at least 99% pure, or even higher purity.

[0164] In some embodiments, an amount of solubilizing agent is added such that the silver carboxylate is substantially or completely dissolved in the solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, "substantially dissolved" means that the silver carboxylate has a solubility of at least about 200 g / L, at least about 300 g / L, at least about 400 g / L, or even more in the solubilizing agent at 25° C. In embodiments in which the silver carboxylate is substantially or completely dissolved in the solubilizing agent, the conductive ink composition can be considered particle-free.

[0165] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprises two or more solubilizing agents. In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the two solubilizing agents in the conductive ink is about 1 to about 1 of the first solubilizing agent to the second solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the two solubilizing agents in the conductive ink is about 2 to about 1 of the first solubilizing agent to the second solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the two solubilizing agents is about 3 to about 1 of the first solubilizing agent to the second solubilizing agent. In some embodiments, the volume ratio of the two solubilizing agents is about 4 to about 1 of the first solubilizing agent to the second solubilizing agent.

[0166] In some embodiments, the flash point of the conductive ink composition may be altered by changing the volume ratio of two or more solvents in the conductive ink. For example, in some embodiments, the flash point of the conductive ink composition is increased by increasing the relative amount of a solvent having a higher flash point compared to a solvent having a lower flash point. More specifically, in some embodiments, the flash point of the conductive ink composition is adjusted by changing the ratio of limonene to terpineol in the conductive ink composition. Even more specifically, the flash point of the conductive ink composition may be decreased by increasing the ratio of limonene to terpineol in the conductive ink composition.

[0167] Acid Stabilizer In another aspect, a conductive ink composition is provided that further comprises an organic acid to stabilize the ink composition. It should be understood that even if no additional organic acid is added to the formulation, residual organic acid may remain present at low levels in the silver carboxylate of the present conductive ink composition (e.g., the silver decanoate preparation described below), but in some cases it may be advantageous for an acid stabilizer to be added to the conductive ink formulation of the present disclosure. For example, the presence of an acid stabilizer in the conductive ink formulation may increase the stability of the formulation, especially during storage at elevated temperatures (e.g., 30° C. or 40° C.). Without intending to be bound by theory, it is believed that the presence of an acid stabilizer in these formulations inhibits the formation of metallic silver during storage.

[0168] In some embodiments, the acid stabilizer added is 6~12 In a preferred embodiment, the added acid stabilizer is one or more of the decanoic acid isomers used to generate the silver decanoate of the conductive ink composition. For example, the added acid stabilizer can be an α-branched decanoic acid isomer. In another preferred embodiment, the added acid stabilizer is 2,2-dimethylhexanoic acid or 2,2-dimethylnonanoic acid.

[0169] The added acid stabilizer is preferably not a linear alkanoic acid. For example, the added acid stabilizer is preferably not n-heptanoic acid, n-octanoic acid, or n-decanoic acid. The added acid stabilizer is also preferably not a secondary alkanoic acid, such as 2-butylhexanoic acid.

[0170] The added acid stabilizer is preferably included in the conductive ink composition in an amount ranging from 0 to 15% by weight, in some embodiments, the added acid stabilizer is included at about 0.5%, about 1.5%, about 5%, about 10%, or even about 15% by weight.

[0171] Adhesion promoter In another aspect, a conductive ink composition is provided that further comprises an adhesion promoter that increases adhesion of the ink to a substrate onto which the ink is printed. It is contemplated that any agent that improves the adhesive properties of the ink and does not significantly impair the fluid properties or other physical properties of the ink composition, including the stability of the ink composition, or the electrical properties or other physical properties of the conductive structures produced using the ink, can be utilized as an adhesion promoter in the present ink composition.

[0172] It should be understood that one or more adhesion promoters and one or more acid stabilizers may be included in the conductive ink compositions of the present disclosure in any combination, either together or separately.

[0173] The adhesion promoter is preferably selected consistent with the choice of substrate onto which the ink will be printed.

[0174] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane. Reactive silanes are known in the chemical and material science arts to enhance the performance of coatings. For example, they can improve adhesion to inorganic substrates, provide crosslinking, improve dispersion of the components of the composition, improve hydrophobicity, and scavenge moisture. In specific embodiments, the reactive silane comprises an alkoxysilane group, e.g., a trialkoxysilyl group. In some embodiments, the alkoxysilyl group can be oligomerized or polymerized into a number of different chain length configurations. In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises an alkyl group, more specifically, an alkyl group that comprises a second reactive moiety. For example, the adhesion promoter can comprise a polyalkene, e.g., poly-1,2-butadiene. Suitable adhesion promoters are commercially available, e.g., from Gelest, Inc., Morrisville, PA, USA.

[0175] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter comprises an epoxy group. More specifically, the adhesion promoter may comprise an epoxy group coupled to a silane, such as any of the reactive silanes described above. In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter may comprise an epoxy group coupled to an alkoxysilane group, such as a trialkoxysilyl group. In specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter may comprise an epoxy group coupled to a trialkoxysilyl group, such as a trimethoxysilyl group or a triethoxysilyl group.

[0176] The adhesion promoter preferably includes a linker group that couples the reactive silane group with a second reactive group, e.g., an alkyl group that includes a reactive moiety, such as a polyalkene or an epoxy group. The linker group can be any suitable chemical linker. In some embodiments, the linker group is an alkyl linker group, e.g., a C2-C 10It is an alkyl linker group. In some embodiments, the linker group is a substituted alkyl linker group, in which the alkyl linker group is substituted with any suitable substituent. For example, the alkyl linker group may be substituted with one or more alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, alkoxy, alkanoyl, alkylamino, hydroxy, thio, amino, alkanoylamino, alkylcarboxy, carbonate, halo, nitro, cyano groups, etc. In some embodiments, one or more of the carbon atoms of the linker may be replaced with a suitable heteroatom. In specific embodiments, the heteroatom may be oxygen, sulfur, or nitrogen in any combination. More specifically, the heteroatom may be oxygen.

[0177] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter has the structure of Formula I: [ka] (wherein each R' is independently a C1-C6 alkyl group and L' is an alkyl linker group). In more specific embodiments of formula I, each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group. In other more specific embodiments of formula I, L' is a substituted C2-C 10 C2-C containing alkyl linker group 10 It may be an alkyl linker group. In some embodiments of formula I, one or more of the carbon atoms of L' may be replaced with a suitable heteroatom, such as oxygen, sulfur, or nitrogen in any combination. More specifically, the heteroatom may be oxygen.

[0178] In some more specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter has the structure of Formula II: [ka]

[0179] (wherein each R' is independently a methyl or ethyl group, X is a heteroatom, and each n is independently 1 to 6.) In some embodiments of Structure II, each R' is a methyl group, X is oxygen, and each n is independently 1 to 3.

[0180] In some specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter of the conductive ink composition is [ka] As described in more detail below, this compound is readily soluble in typical ink formulations. Specifically, ink formulations containing this adhesion promoter can be prepared at 0.1-0.5% without reducing the conductivity of structures produced from this ink on various substrates. Furthermore, inks containing this adhesion promoter are stable for 14-30 days at 40°C without visible precipitation or plating. These formulations also exhibit suitable viscosities for use in typical industrial inkjet printhead technology. The addition of up to 3% water to the ink formulations does not reduce the stability of these inks at 40°C.

[0181] In some specific embodiments, the adhesion promoter of the conductive ink composition is [ka] It is.

[0182] Exemplary conductive ink formulations containing this compound are illustrated below, including formulations containing various acid and non-acid stabilizers.

[0183] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter does not contain a silane.

[0184] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter may be or may include a dendrimer compound. More specifically, the dendrimer compound may be a poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) dendrimer compound. PAMAMs are typically made of repeating subunits of amide and amine functional groups with dendritic branches. They have a generally spherical shape with high molecular uniformity, narrow molecular weight distribution, and defined size and shape characteristics. PAMAM dendrimers are typically prepared from a central core in an iterative manufacturing process where each subsequent step presents a new "generation" (G) of dendrimer. For example, G0 has 4 surface groups, G1 has 8 surface groups, G2 has 16 surface groups, G3 has 32 surface groups, G4 has 64 surface groups, G5 has 128 surface groups, etc. The surface groups, typically primary amino groups, represent binding sites available for further modification. For example, the surface groups may be unmodified, resulting in an amino surface PAMAM, or the surface groups may be further modified to result in an amidoethanol (i.e., hydroxy) surface PAMAM, a succinamic acid surface PAMAM, a sodium carboxylate surface PAMAM, a hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM, or any other surface-modified PAMAM. In some cases, the PAMAM dendrimer may have a mixture of any of these surface modifications.

[0185] In a preferred embodiment, the adhesion promoter is a second generation (G2) PAMAM compound, such as a PAMAM compound having the following core structure: [ka] The dendrimer compound is or comprises a dendrimer compound comprising:

[0186] In other preferred embodiments, the adhesion promoter is or comprises a hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM, such as a C12 hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM. In some embodiments, the hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM is a 25% or 50% mixed amine / hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM. In some embodiments, the hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM is a G2, G3 or G4 hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM. In a highly preferred embodiment, the adhesion promoter is a G2-50% C12 hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM.

[0187] Exemplary conductive ink formulations containing G2-50% C12 hydrophobe-substituted PAMAM, including formulations with various acid and non-acid stabilizers, are illustrated below.

[0188] Dendrimer compounds suitable for use as adhesion promoters in the conductive ink compositions disclosed herein are available, for example, from Dendritech, Inc. (www.dendritech.com).

[0189] In some embodiments, the adhesion promoter does not include a dendrimer compound.

[0190] Particle-free conductive ink composition Provided herein is a conductive ink composition comprising the above-mentioned silver carboxylate. For example, in some embodiments, the silver carboxylate is silver decanoate, and the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer as described above. In some embodiments, the at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer is a silver salt of 2,2-dimethyloctanoic acid, 2,2,3,5-tetramethylhexanoic acid, 2,4-dimethyl-2-isopropylpentanoic acid, 2,5-dimethyl-2-ethylhexanoic acid, 2,2-diethylhexanoic acid, 2-butylhexanoic acid, or any combination of these α-branched decanoic acid isomers.

[0191] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition does not contain a catalyst. In particular, when the silver carboxylate is a silver decanoate, such as a silver decanoate containing at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer or a mixture of various α-branched silver decanoate isomers, it may not be necessary to include a catalyst, much less an amine-containing catalyst, in the composition. Thus, in these embodiments, the conductive structure can be formed from the conductive ink composition by heating the silver complex at a temperature of about 250° C. or less to form the conductive structure.

[0192] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 1 to about 50 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 1 to about 40 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 1 to about 30 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 1 to about 20 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 1 to about 10 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a silver concentration of about 5 to about 15 percent by weight of the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprises about 1 weight percent, about 2 weight percent, about 3 weight percent, about 4 weight percent), about 5 weight percent, about 6 weight percent, about 7 weight percent, about 8 weight percent, about 9 weight percent, about 10 weight percent), about 11 weight percent), about 12 weight percent, about 13 weight percent, about 14 weight percent, about 15 weight percent, about 16 weight percent), about 17 weight percent), about 18 weight percent, about 19 weight percent, about 20 weight percent, about 21 weight percent, about 22 weight percent), about 23 weight percent, about 24 weight percent, about 25 weight percent in the conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the silver concentration is about 26 weight percent, about 27 weight percent, about 28 weight percent, about 29 weight percent, about 30 weight percent, about 31 weight percent, about 32 weight percent, about 33 weight percent, about 34 weight percent, about 35 weight percent, about 36 weight percent, about 37 weight percent, about 38 weight percent, about 39 weight percent, about 40 weight percent, about 41 weight percent, about 42 weight percent, about 43 weight percent, about 44 weight percent, about 45 weight percent, about 46 weight percent, about 47 weight percent, about 48 weight percent, about 49 weight percent, about 50 weight percent, or even higher weight percent.

[0193] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprises one or more of the above solubilizing agents in any combination.

[0194] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprises one or more of the above adhesion promoters in any combination.

[0195] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition includes one or more of the above acid stabilizers in any combination.

[0196] In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure formed from the conductive ink composition is measured. In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is about 2×10 -6 ohm-cm ~ approx. 1 x 10 -5 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is about 3×10 -6 ohm-cm ~ approx. 6 x 10 -6 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is at least about 2×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -6 ohm-cm, or approximately 9×10 -6 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is at most about 1×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 9 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -6 ohm-cm, or approximately 3×10 -6 In ohm-cm.

[0197] The electrical conductivity of the conductive structure, in some embodiments, can be expressed in terms of sheet resistivity (i.e., bulk resistivity divided by thickness) in units of ohms per square (also called ohms / square or OPS). For example, in some embodiments, the resistivity of the conductive structure is 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, 0.5 ohms per square or less, or even lower. Preferably, the resistivity of the conductive structure is 1 ohm per square or less.

[0198] The conductive ink compositions of the present disclosure can be used to form conductive structures having high levels of bulk silver. Specifically, in some embodiments, the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 1%. In more specific embodiments, the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 2%, at least 5%, at least 10%, at least 15%, at least 20%, or even higher.

[0199] Method for making conductive ink composition According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides methods for making conductive ink compositions, in particular conductive ink compositions as described above, comprising dissolving silver decanoate in at least one solubilizing agent to form a conductive ink composition, the silver decanoate comprising at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, such as any of the silver decanoates described above.

[0200] In some embodiments, the method includes the further step of dissolving an adhesion promoter, including any one or more of the adhesion promoters described above, and / or an acid stabilizer, including any one or more of the acid stabilizers described above, in at least one dissolving agent.

[0201] Method for forming a conductive structure - Patent application In another aspect, a method of making a conductive structure is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method includes dissolving a silver carboxylate in at least one solubilizing agent to form a conductive ink composition. In some embodiments, the method also includes applying the conductive ink composition to a substrate. In some embodiments, the method includes heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate at a decomposition temperature of about 250° C. or less to form the conductive structure. In some embodiments, the method includes heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate at a decomposition temperature of about 100° C. or less to form the conductive structure. In some embodiments, the method includes heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate at a decomposition temperature of about 210° C. or less, about 200° C. or less, about 190° C., about 180° C. or less, about 170° C. or less, about 160° C., about 150° C. or less, about 140° C. or less, about 130° C. or less, about 120° C. or less, about 110° C. or less, about 90° C. or less, about 80° C. or less, about 70° C. or less, about 60° C. or less, or about 50° C. or less to form a conductive structure. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is heated using a heat source. Examples of heat sources include IR lamps, an oven, or a heated substrate.

[0202] In preferred embodiments, the conductive ink composition of the present method does not include a catalyst. More specifically, in some embodiments, the conductive ink composition of the present method does not include an amine-containing catalyst.

[0203] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition of the method has a desired viscosity. In some embodiments, the desired viscosity is obtained using a Micro VISC viscometer. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 50 centipoise to about 1000 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 10 centipoise to about 40 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 20 centipoise to about 30 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 18 centipoise to about 20 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 18, about 19, or about 20 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of at least about 5 centipoise, about 10 centipoise, about 20 centipoise, about 30 centipoise, about 40 centipoise, about 50 centipoise, about 60 centipoise, about 70 centipoise, about 80 centipoise, about 90 centipoise, about 100 centipoise, about 200 centipoise, about 300 centipoise, about 400 centipoise, about 500 centipoise, about 600 centipoise, about 700 centipoise, about 800 centipoise, or about 900 centipoise. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of up to about 1000 centipoise, about 900 centipoise, about 800 centipoise, about 700 centipoise, about 600 centipoise, about 500 centipoise, about 400 centipoise, about 300 centipoise, about 200 centipoise, about 100 centipoise, about 90 centipoise, about 80 centipoise, about 70 centipoise, about 60 centipoise, about 50 centipoise, about 40 centipoise, about 30 centipoise, about 20 centipoise, or about 10 centipoise.

[0204] In some embodiments, the viscosity of the conductive ink composition is adjusted based on the amount of solubilizer used. In some embodiments, the viscosity of the complex is adjusted based on the type of solubilizer used. For example, in embodiments where the solubilizer includes limonene and terpineol, increasing the percentage of terpineol in the conductive ink composition may increase the viscosity of the ink. In some embodiments, the viscosity of the silver complex may be adjusted from less than 5 centipoise with a large proportion of limonene to 50 centipoise with a large proportion of terpineol. Unless otherwise indicated, all viscosity values ​​are for samples at room temperature.

[0205] Application of conductive ink composition The conductive ink compositions of the present disclosure can be used in a variety of printing applications including slot-die coating, spin coating, roll-to-roll printing, including gravure, flexography, rotary screen printing, screen printing, aerosol jet printing, inkjet printing, airbrush, Mayer rod coating, flood coating, 3D printing, dispenser, and electrohydrodynamic printing. In particular, the inks can be used in inkjet printing, dip coating, and spray coating.

[0206] Additionally, photolithography can be used to create patterns and create masks to etch the silver from specific areas, thereby creating high fidelity features. Both positive and negative tone patterning processes may be used to create the patterns.

[0207] In some embodiments, the silver salt of the silver carboxylate is completely dissolved in at least one dissolving agent. The completely dissolved silver salt is compatible with many non-polar polymeric substrates, glass and ceramic substrates, which are particularly difficult to wet with polar complexes. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to a polymeric substrate, e.g., a flexible polymeric substrate, such as a polyimide (PI) substrate, e.g., Kapton. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to a non-polar polymeric substrate. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to a glass substrate. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to a ceramic substrate.

[0208] Additionally, elastomers and 3D substrates, particularly those having non-planar topography, can be used in conjunction with the conductive structures. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to an elastomer. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition comprising the silver complex is applied to a 3D substrate.

[0209] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition of the present disclosure may be applied to an epoxy substrate, such as an epoxy molding compound (EMC) substrate.

[0210] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition of the present disclosure may be applied to a silver nanowire (SNW) substrate, a solder resist substrate (also called a solder mask substrate), or any other suitable substrate material.

[0211] In some embodiments, the ink composition of the present method has a metal salt concentration of about 0.1 to 50 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition of the present method has a metal salt concentration of about 0.1 to 40 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal salt concentration of about 1 to 30 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal salt concentration of about 1 to 20 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal salt concentration of about 1 to 10 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal salt concentration of about 5 to 15 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal concentration of about 0.1 weight percent), about 0.2 weight percent), about 0.3 weight percent>, about 0.4 weight percent>, about 0.5 weight percent>, about 0.6 weight percent>, about 0.7 weight percent, about 0.8 weight percent, about 0.9 weight percent, about 1 weight percent, about 2 weight percent, about 3 weight percent, about 4 weight percent), about 5 weight percent), about 6 weight percent, about 7 weight percent, about 8 weight percent, about 9 weight percent, about 10 weight percent, about 11 weight percent), about 12 weight percent, about 13 weight percent, about 14 weight percent, about 15 weight percent, about 16 weight percent, about 17 weight percent), about 18 weight percent, about 19 weight percent, or about 20 weight percent of the ink composition.

[0212] In some embodiments, the ink composition of the present method has a metal salt concentration of at least about 0.1 weight percent, about 0.2 weight percent, about 0.3 weight percent, about 0.4 weight percent, about 0.5 weight percent, about 0.6 weight percent, about 0.7 weight percent, about 0.8 weight percent, about 0.9 weight percent, 1 weight percent, about 2 weight percent, about 3 weight percent, about 4 weight percent), about 5 weight percent), about 6 weight percent, about 7 weight percent, about 8 weight percent, about 9 weight percent, about 10 weight percent, about 11 weight percent), about 12 weight percent, about 13 weight percent, about 14 weight percent, about 15 weight percent, about 16 weight percent, about 17 weight percent), about 18 weight percent, about 19 weight percent, or about 20 weight percent of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal salt concentration of up to about 40 weight percent, about 39 weight percent, about 38 weight percent, about 37 weight percent, about 36 weight percent, about 35 weight percent, about 34 weight percent, about 33 weight percent, about 32 weight percent, 31 weight percent, about 30 weight percent, about 29 weight percent, about 28 weight percent, about 27 weight percent), about 26 weight percent, about 25 weight percent, about 24 weight percent, about 23 weight percent, about 22 weight percent, about 21 weight percent), about 20 weight percent, about 19 weight percent, about 18 weight percent, about 17 weight percent, about 16 weight percent, about 15 weight percent, about 14 weight percent, about 13 weight percent, or about 12 weight percent of the ink composition.

[0213] In some embodiments, the ink composition of the present method has a metal complex concentration of about 0.1 to 50 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition of the present method has a metal complex concentration of about 0.1 to 40 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal complex concentration of about 1 to 30 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal complex concentration of about 1 to 20 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal complex concentration of about 1 to 10 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal complex concentration of about 5 to 15 percent by weight of the ink composition. In some embodiments, the ink composition has a metal complex concentration of about 0.1 weight percent, about 0.2 weight percent, about 0.3 weight percent, about 0.4 weight percent, about 0.5 weight percent, about 0.6 weight percent, about 0.7 weight percent, about 0.8 weight percent, about 0.9 weight percent), 1 weight percent), about 2 weight percent, about 3 weight percent, about 4 weight percent, about 5 weight percent, about 6 weight percent, about 7 weight percent), about 8 weight percent), about 9 weight percent, about 10 weight percent, about 11 weight percent, about 12 weight percent, about 13 weight percent), about 14 weight percent), about 15 weight percent, about 16 weight percent, about 17 weight percent, about 18 weight percent, about 19 weight percent, or about 20 weight percent of the ink composition.

[0214] Decomposition In another aspect, the conductive ink composition of the present disclosure is decomposed on a substrate to form a conductive structure on the substrate. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is decomposed by heating the reducible metal complex at a temperature of about 270° C. or less. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is decomposed by heating the conductive ink composition at a temperature of about 260° C. or less, about 250° C. or less, about 240° C. or less, about 230° C. or less, about 220° C. or less, about 210° C. or less, about 200° C. or less, about 190° C. or less, about 180° C. or less, about 170° C. or less, about 160° C. or less, about 150° C. or less, about 140° C. or less, about 130° C. or less, about 120° C. or less, about 110° C. or less, about 100° C. or less, about 90° C. or less, about 80° C. or less, or about 70° C. or less. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is heated by a heat source, examples of which include an IR lamp, an oven, or a heated substrate.

[0215] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source having a wavelength of about 100 nm to about 1500 nm. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source such as a xenon lamp or an IR lamp having a wavelength of about 100 nm to about 1000 nm. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source having a wavelength of about 100 nm to about 700 nm. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source having a wavelength of about 100 nm to about 500 nm. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source having a wavelength of about 100 nm to about 300 nm. In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is degraded by exposing the composition to a light source having a wavelength of about 100 nm, about 200 nm, about 300 nm, about 400 nm, about 500 nm, about 600 nm, about 700 nm, about 800 nm, about 900 nm, or about 1000 nm.

[0216] In some embodiments, the conductive ink composition is decomposed by a combination of heating the reducible metal complex, e.g., at any of the temperatures listed above, and exposing the composition to a light source, e.g., at any of the wavelengths listed above.

[0217] In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is measured. In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is about 1×10 -6 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is about 1×10 ohm-cm or higher. -6 ohm-cm ~ approx. 8 x 10 -4 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is about 3×10 -6 ohm-cm ~ approx. 6 x 10 -6 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is at least about 1×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 2 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 9 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 1×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 2 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 9 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 1×10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 2 x 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -4Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -4 ohm-cm, or approximately 7×10 -4 In some embodiments, the electrical conductivity of the conductive structure is at most about 8×10 -4 Ohm-cm, 7×10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 2 x 10 -4 ohm-cm, or approximately 1×10 -4 Ohm-cm, approximately 9 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 2 x 10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 1×10 -5 Ohm-cm, approximately 9 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 8 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 7×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 6×10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 5 × 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 4 x 10 -6 Ohm-cm, approximately 3 x 10 -6 ohm-cm, or approximately 2×10 -6 In ohm-cm.

[0218] It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that other suitable modifications and adaptations to the compositions and methods described herein may be made without departing from the scope of the invention or any embodiment thereof. Having now described the invention in detail, the invention will be more clearly understood by reference to the following examples, which are included herein for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the invention. EXAMPLES

[0219] Preparation of silver decanoate The decanoic acid used to form the silver carboxylate of the improved conductive ink composition preferably comprises at least one α-branched decanoic acid isomer. Decanoic acid can be converted to the silver decanoate used in the conductive ink composition according to the following general protocol: [ka] In the above structure, R1 and R2 are each independently an alkyl group, R3 is either a hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R1, R2, and R3 collectively contain a total of 8 carbon atoms.

[0220] In one exemplary preparation of silver decanoate isomer mixture, Ag2O powder (13.58 g, 0.058 mol) was slowly added to a solution of decanoic acid isomer mixture (21.20 g, 0.12 mol) in dry THF (175 mL) and stirred at room temperature. After 3 hours, the black silver oxide dissolved to form an off-white solution. The mixture was allowed to stir overnight until it became a creamy white solution. Once complete, methanol (600 mL) was poured into the mixture to precipitate silver decanoate. The solvent was removed and more methanol (600 mL) was added to remove excess decanoic acid. Finally, excess methanol was removed and silver decanoate was collected as a white solid by centrifugation (20 g, 60%). [ka]

[0221] In another exemplary preparation of silver decanoate, Ag2O powder (3.01 g, 0.013 mol) was slowly added to a solution of 2,2-diethylhexanoic acid (5.000 g, 0.029 mol) in dry THF (45 mL) and stirred at room temperature. After 24 hours, the black silver oxide dissolved to form an off-white solution. The mixture was stirred for another 24 hours until it became a creamy white solution. Upon completion, methanol (200 mL) was poured into the mixture to precipitate silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate (Ag-2,2-DEHA). The solvent was removed and more methanol (200 mL) was added to remove excess 2,2-diethylhexanoic acid. Finally, excess methanol was removed and Ag-2,2-DEHA was collected as a white solid by centrifugation (1.74 g, 21%). [ka]

[0222] In yet another exemplary preparation of silver decanoate, Ag2O powder (3.01 g, 0.013 mol) was slowly added to a solution of 2-butylhexanoic acid (5.000 g, 0.029 mol) in dry THF (45 mL) and stirred at room temperature. After 48 hours, the black silver oxide dissolved to form an off-white solution. The mixture was stirred for another 24 hours until it became a creamy white solution. Upon completion, methanol (200 mL) was poured into the mixture to precipitate silver 2-butylhexanoate (Ag-2-BHA). The solvent was removed and more methanol (200 mL) was added to remove excess 2-butylhexanoic acid. Finally, excess methanol was removed and Ag-2-BHA was collected as a white solid by centrifugation (3.4 g, 42%).

[0223] Exemplary ink formulations containing silver decanoate and their cure profiles Formulation 1 In one exemplary ink preparation, 0.720 g of the silver decanoate isomer mixture (36 wt%) was dissolved in a mixture of 0.509 g of xylene and 0.580 g of α-terpineol. 0.191 g of iso-butanol was added to the mixture, which was then stirred overnight at room temperature. The next day, the mixture was filtered using a 0.45 micron syringe filter to yield a colorless solution with a viscosity of 9-11 centipoise.

[0224] Once the silver ink was blade coated onto the glass and polyimide, the ink was annealed in an oven or on a hot plate at various temperatures ranging from 140°C to 250°C for 1 hour. After approximately 10-15 minutes of curing, the film begins to turn reddish brown. After approximately 30 minutes, the film begins to turn black and then metallic silver, indicating that the entire complex has decomposed into metallic conductive structures.

[0225] The conductive structures have electrical resistivities ranging from 0.061 to 0.468 ohms per square (OPS), depending on the substrate and curing temperature. The results are summarized below. [Table 1]

[0226] Once the silver ink was inkjet printed onto the glass, the ink was annealed in an oven at various temperatures between 120°C and 200°C for 1 hour. The conductive structures have electrical resistivities between 114.9 and 10.7 Ω, and bulk silver levels between 0.87 and 28.98%, depending on the cure temperature. The results are summarized below. [Table 2-1] [Table 2-2] (Parameters: 30μm drop space, 4 layers, line length 5cm, 12 pixels)

[0227] Formulation 2 In another exemplary ink preparation, 0.720 g of the silver decanoate isomer mixture (36 wt%) was dissolved in a mixture of 1.022 g of xylene. 0.258 g of acetylacetone was added to the mixture, which was then stirred overnight at room temperature. The next day, the mixture was filtered using a 0.45 micron syringe filter to obtain a colorless solution with a viscosity of 3-4 centipoise.

[0228] Once the silver ink was blade coated onto the glass and polyimide, the ink was annealed in an oven or on a hot plate at various temperatures ranging from 140°C to 250°C for 1 hour. After approximately 10-15 minutes of curing, the film begins to turn reddish brown. After approximately 30 minutes, the film begins to turn black and then metallic silver, indicating that the entire complex has decomposed into metallic conductive structures.

[0229] The conductive structures have electrical resistivities ranging from 0.101 to 0.962 ohms per square (OPS), depending on the substrate and cure temperature. The results are summarized below. [Table 3]

[0230] Formulation 3 In yet another exemplary ink preparation, 0.720 g of silver 2,2-diethylhexanoate (18.5 wt%) was dissolved in a mixture of 2.397 g of xylene and 0.580 g of α-terpineol. 0.191 g of iso-butanol was added to the mixture, which was then stirred at room temperature overnight. The next day, the mixture was filtered using a 0.45 micron syringe filter to obtain a colorless solution.

[0231] Once the silver ink was inkjet printed onto the glass, the ink was annealed in an oven at various temperatures between 120°C and 180°C for 1 hour. The conductive structures have electrical resistivity and bulk conductivity ranges from 91.5 to 21.6 Ω, and bulk silver levels from 2.45 to 19.49%, depending on the cure temperature. The results are summarized below. [Table 4] (Parameters: 30μm drop space, 8 layers, line length 5cm, 12 pixels)

[0232] Formulation 4 In yet another exemplary ink preparation, 0.720 g of silver decanoate isomer mixture (18.5 wt%) was dissolved in a mixture of 2.397 g of xylene and 0.580 g of α-terpineol. 0.191 g of iso-butanol was added to the mixture, which was then stirred at room temperature overnight. The next day, the mixture was filtered using a 0.45 micron syringe filter to obtain a colorless solution.

[0233] Once the silver ink was inkjet printed onto the glass, the ink was annealed in an oven at various temperatures between 120°C and 200°C for 1 hour. The conductive structures have electrical resistivities and bulk conductivity ranges from 644 to 9.9 Ω, and bulk silver levels from 0.09 to 36.08%, depending on the cure temperature. The results are summarized below. [Table 5-1] [Table 5-2] (Parameters: 30μm drop space, 8 layers, line length 5cm, 12 pixels)

[0234] Conductive ink formulations containing non-aromatic solubilizers Formulation 5 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 64% limonene post-added with 1.5% decanoic acid isomer mixture.

[0235] Formulation 6 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene post-added with 1.5% decanoic acid isomer mixture.

[0236] Formulation 7 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture.

[0237] Formulation 8 40% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 50% limonene and 10% terpineol, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture.

[0238] Formulation 9 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 44% limonene and 20% terpineol with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture post-added.

[0239] Formulation 10 50% mixture of silver decanoate isomers in 45% xylene and 5% terpineol. (Used as a control for comparison with non-aromatic solubilizers.)

[0240] Formulation 11 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 1.5% decanoic acid isomer mixture.

[0241] Formulation 12 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene with post-addition of 1.5% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% triethoxysilyl modified poly-1,2-butadiene (50% in volatile silicone (SSP056) (available from Gelest)).

[0242] Formulation 13 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene with post-addition of 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% triethoxysilyl modified poly-1,2-butadiene (50% in volatile silicone (SSP056)).

[0243] Formulation 14 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene with post-addition of 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% triethoxysilyl modified poly-1,2-butadiene (50% in volatile silicone (SSP056)). [Table 6]

[0244] In situ thermal curing of conductive ink formulations containing non-aromatic solubilizers 1A-1C show the time course of in situ thermal curing at various temperatures of a conductive ink containing a non-aromatic solubilizer. The electrical properties of the conductive silver structures formed from the conductive ink at various temperatures are summarized below. [Table 7]

[0245] In situ thermal curing of conductive ink formulations containing acid stabilizers Figure 2 shows the time course of in situ thermal cure at 135°C of a new conductive ink formulation containing increasing amounts of α-branched decanoic acid stabilizer (AS). All of the conductive silver structures formed from the conductive inks cure in similar times and exhibit similar resistivities (4.4-5 µOhm-cm).

[0246] In situ thermal curing of conductive ink formulations containing adhesion promoters Figures 3A and 3B show the time course of in situ thermal cure at 180°C (Figure 3A) and 150°C (Figure 3B) of a novel conductive ink formulation with (Formulation 12) and without (Formulation 11) a reactive silane adhesion promoter (SSP056). The formulations also contained 1.5% decanoic acid isomer mixture as an acid stabilizer. Formulation 1 was included as a control.

[0247] Figure 4 summarizes various features and properties of representative ink formulations containing non-aromatic solvents. Images of the print pad provide a metric for the ink coating quality. An inkjet pad is printed with each ink to see the spreading or beading of the print on a particular substrate. A glass substrate was used in these examples. Open time is a metric in inkjet printing. Volatile inks typically evaporate at the nozzles after a certain amount of open time (where open time is the time the printer remains stopped without printing). Evaporation of the ink can cause the jets to stop working.

[0248] Exemplary ink formulations containing (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane and their stability and cure profiles Formulation 15 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane as adhesion promoter.

[0249] Formulation 16 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane as adhesion promoter.

[0250] Figure 5A shows images of formulations 15 and 16 in glass vials. These formulations result in clear, colorless ink solutions with the indicated silver content and viscosity.

[0251] Figure 5B shows the stability of Formulation 15 at elevated temperatures. Images of glass vials containing this formulation show that the ink remains clear and colorless at 40°C for at least 29 days.

[0252] Figure 5C shows the high temperature stability of Formulation 15 with 3% added water. The image of a glass vial containing this formulation shows that the ink remains clear and colorless at 40°C for at least 7 days.

[0253] Figure 5D shows the stability of formulation 16 at high temperatures. An image of a glass vial containing this formulation shows that the ink remains clear and colorless at 40°C for at least 9 days.

[0254] 6A-6F show exemplary conductive structures printed on various test substrates using the conductive ink formulations of the present disclosure.

[0255] Figure 6A shows the results of printing Formulation 15 on a typical EMC substrate with the indicated number of prints, thickness of the printed structure, sheet resistance and resistivity. Also shown are images of a printed structure formed from this ink over time under pressure cooker testing.

[0256] Figure 6B shows the results of printing Formulation 15 to a thickness of only 1.8 μm on each side of an alternative EMC substrate (with residual release agent on the surface) with the indicated number of prints, thickness of the printed structure, sheet resistance and resistivity. Images of printed structures formed from this ink over time under pressure cooker testing are also shown.

[0257] Figure 6C shows the results of printing Formulation 15 at thicknesses of 1.8 μm and 3.0 μm on each side of an alternative EMC substrate (with residual release agent on the surface) with the indicated number of prints, thickness of the printed structure, sheet resistance and resistivity. Images of printed structures formed from this ink over time under pressure cooker testing are also shown.

[0258] Figure 6D shows the results of printing thin films of Formulation 16 on various substrates with the indicated print layer, thickness of the printed structure, sheet resistance and resistivity. Also shown are before and after tape test images of printed structures formed from this ink.

[0259] Figure 6E shows the results of printing thick films of Formulation 16 on various substrates with the indicated print layer, thickness of the printed structure, sheet resistance and resistivity. Also shown are before and after tape test images of printed structures formed from this ink.

[0260] Figure 6F shows a comparison of Formulation 16 (bottom row) printed with Formulation 7 (top row) and Formulation 14 (middle row) on a silver nanowire (SNW) substrate. As evident from the tape test results, conductive structures prepared using an ink composition containing (3-glycidyloxypropyl)trimethoxysilane adhesion promoter (Formulation 16) have significantly improved adhesion properties compared to structures prepared from an ink composition without an adhesion promoter (Formulation 7) and structures prepared from an ink composition containing a triethoxysilyl modified poly-1,2-butadiene (SSP056) adhesion promoter (Formulation 14).

[0261] Exemplary ink formulations containing (3-glycidyloxypropyl)triethoxysilane and their stability and cure profiles Formulation 17 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% (3-glycidyloxypropyl)triethoxysilane as adhesion promoter.

[0262] Formulation 18 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 0.5% (3-glycidyloxypropyl)triethoxysilane as adhesion promoter.

[0263] Formulation 19 45% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 55% limonene, post-added with 3% 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedione as a stabilizer and 1.5% (glycidyloxypropyl)triethoxysilane as an adhesion promoter.

[0264] Formulations 17, 18 and 19 result in clear, colorless ink compositions containing 13% silver. Formulations 18 and 19 are kept at 40° C. for at least one week to evaluate their stability.

[0265] FIG. 7A illustrates the results of printing Formulation 18 on various substrates under various conditions.

[0266] FIG. 7B illustrates the results of printing Formulation 19 on various substrates under various conditions.

[0267] Exemplary ink formulations containing dendrimer adhesion promoters and their stability and cure profiles formulation 20 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture and 1.5% PAMAM dendrimer G2-50% C12 mixed amine / hydrophobe as adhesion promoter.

[0268] Formulation 21 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 3% 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedione as a stabilizer and 1.5% PAMAM dendrimer G2-50% C12 mixed amine / hydrophobe as an adhesion promoter.

[0269] Formulation 22 36% silver decanoate isomer mixture in 32% terpineol and 32% limonene, post-added with 1% 2,2,6,6-tetramethyl-3,5-heptanedione and 3% decanoic acid isomer mixture as stabilizers and 1.5% PAMAM dendrimer G2-50% C12 mixed amine / hydrophobe as adhesion promoter.

[0270] Formulations 20, 21 and 22 all result in clear, colorless ink compositions containing 13.5% silver.

[0271] The novel dendrimer-containing conductive ink formulations were characterized using standard techniques in the art.

[0272] FIG. 8 shows the physical and electrical properties of conductive structures prepared by printing formulations 21 and 22 onto an EMC substrate.

[0273] FIG. 9 shows the stability over time of conductive structures prepared from Formulations 20, 21 and 22 in a pressure cooker test.

[0274] FIG. 10 shows high temperature storage (HTS) testing of conductive structures prepared from Formulation 22 at 125° C. for 500 and 1000 hours.

[0275] Figure 11 is an image of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in a process for printing a new formulation of Formulation 22. This conductive ink formulation provided stable printing with no nozzle clogging or plate wetting.

[0276] Figures 12A and 12B are images of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in the process of printing a preparation of Formulation 22 that had been stored at 4°C for either 20 days in a printer cartridge (Figure 12A) or 8 days in a vial (Figure 12B). Figure 12C shows the physical and electrical properties of conductive structures prepared using this ink formulation on two different substrates.

[0277] FIG. 13 shows an image of an inkjet printer nozzle plate in the process of printing a preparation of Formulation 22 that had been stored in a vial at 40° C. for 10 days.

[0278] FIG. 14 shows the properties of conductive structures prepared on various substrates using Formulation 22 stored either in a cartridge at 4° C. for 27 days or in a vial at 40° C. for 10 days.

[0279] Figures 15A and 15B illustrate the stability of Formulation 22 over time at 60° C. and 40° C., respectively. Figure 15C shows the viscosity and surface tension for various batches of Formulation 22.

[0280] Formulation 22 was further treated with various amounts of water to test the stability of the formulation under low and high temperature storage conditions. The effect of water on the physical and electrical properties of the conductive structures prepared from the treated ink formulations was also evaluated.

[0281] Figure 16A shows the stability of Formulation 22 with 1.5% HO (left vial) and 10% HO (right vial) at 4°C. No polymerization was observed in either vial for at least 35 days. Figure 16B shows the stability of Formulation 22 with 10% HO over time at 40°C.

[0282] FIG. 17 shows the reliability test of a conductive structure prepared using Formulation 22 with 3% H2O.

[0283] All patents, patent publications, and other published references referred to in this specification are incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each was individually and specifically incorporated by reference herein.

[0284] Although specific examples have been provided, the above description is illustrative and not limiting. Any one or more of the features of the above-described embodiments can be combined in any manner with one or more features of any other embodiment of the present invention. Furthermore, many variations of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this specification. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should be determined by reference to the appended claims, along with their full scope of equivalents.

Claims

1. Silver decanoate, at least one lysis agent; and Adhesion promoter wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane or epoxide, or comprises a dendrimer compound; The silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 250° C. or less to form a conductive structure. Conductive ink composition.

2. 2. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer.

3. 2. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the silver decanoate comprises a plurality of α-branched silver decanoate isomers.

4. The silver decanoate has the structure: 【Chemistry 27】 [In the formula, R １ and R ２ are each independently an alkyl group, and R ３ is either hydrogen or an alkyl group, and R １ , R ２ and R ３ 10. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein collectively, each of the groups contains a total of 8 carbon atoms.

5. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the conductive ink composition is particle-free.

6. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the at least one solubilizing agent comprises a terpene, a terpenoid, or a combination thereof.

7. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane and an epoxide.

8. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the adhesion promoter comprises a poly(amidoamine) dendrimer compound.

9. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 further comprising an acid stabilizer.

10. 2. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizer comprises limonene and terpineol, and the adhesion promoter comprises a reactive silane and an epoxide.

11. 10. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the silver decanoate comprises at least one α-branched silver decanoate isomer, the at least one solubilizer comprises limonene, and the conductive ink composition further comprises an acid stabilizer.

12. 10. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the conductive ink composition has a concentration of silver decanoate of about 1 to about 50 weight percent.

13. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the conductive ink composition has a viscosity of about 5 centipoise to about 50 centipoise.

14. 10. The conductive ink composition of claim 1, wherein the conductive structures have a resistivity of 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, or 0.5 ohms per square or less.

15. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the conductive structures have a bulk silver content of at least 1%.

16. The conductive ink composition of claim 1 , wherein the silver decanoate is decarboxylated at a temperature of 180° C. or less to form the conductive structures.

17. 1. A method of forming a conductive structure, comprising: applying the conductive ink composition according to any one of claims 1 to 16 to a substrate; heating the conductive ink composition on the substrate to a temperature of about 250° C. or less to form the conductive structure; A method comprising:

18. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the conductive ink composition is applied by gravure, flexography, rotary screen printing, screen printing, aerosol jet printing, inkjet printing, airbrush, Mayer rod coating, flood coating, 3D printing, slot die coating, spin coating, roll-to-roll printing, including dispenser or electrohydrodynamic printing.

19. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the conductive structure has a resistivity of 5 ohms per square or less, 2 ohms per square or less, 1 ohm per square or less, or 0.5 ohms per square or less.

20. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the conductive structure has a bulk silver content of at least 1%.

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