Multi-Layer Electrode for Low Resistance High Current
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ITO electrodes are inflexible and lack stability in energy efficiency, making them unsuitable for foldable and rollable smart windows, while silver electrodes face durability issues due to oxidation, limiting their commercialization and requiring effective oxidation prevention and conductivity connections.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer electrode structure comprising a base, hard coating layer, index matching layer, conductive capping layers, metal layer, and conductive functional layer, where the metal layer includes a silver alloy with niobium and gold, and conductive capping and functional layers are made from materials like ITO, IZO, and IZTO, enhancing flexibility and reducing resistance for high current transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ITO electrode is used, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but flexibility is poor and energy efficiency stability is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is divided into multiple functional layers: a flexible substrate layer, a metal layer (silver-based) for high conductivity, and conductive oxide layers (ITO/IZO) for oxidation protection. This segmentation allows each layer to fulfill its specific function while collectively achieving both flexibility and stable energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite material structure combining silver metal layer with conductive oxide layers (ITO, IZO). The silver provides high conductivity and flexibility, while the conductive oxide layers provide oxidation protection and interfacial adhesion, creating a composite electrode that overcomes the limitations of pure ITO.
2Adaptability or versatility
If silver is used as electrode material, then flexibility and conductivity are improved, but oxidation resistance is poor
Solution Approach 1:
Conductive oxide layers (ITO, IZO) are introduced as intermediary layers between the silver metal layer and the environment. These intermediary layers serve as protective barriers that prevent direct contact between oxygen and the silver, thereby preventing oxidation while maintaining electrical conductivity and flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode employs a composite structure where silver metal is combined with conductive oxide materials (ITO, IZO). This composite approach leverages the high conductivity and flexibility of silver while utilizing the oxidation resistance of conductive oxides, achieving both desired properties simultaneously.
3Reliability
If multi-layer structure is formed, then flexibility and oxidation resistance are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is segmented into distinct functional layers (substrate, metal layer, conductive oxide layers), where each layer has a specific function. This segmentation simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing each layer to be deposited using standard techniques, and facilitates quality control and defect isolation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multi-layer electrode structure achieves low resistance and high current transmission while ensuring flexibility and durability, with improved charge mobility and optical transmittance, as demonstrated by cyclic voltammogram tests and durability assessments.
Implementation Method 1
it is difficult to commercialize silver due to a problem with durability such as oxidation. There is limitation that it is required to effectively prevent oxidation
Implementation Method 2
silver (Ag) is an excellent material as a flexible transparent electrode because it has high visible light transmittance and very low resistivity in a thin film
Implementation Method 3
a composite forming the hard coating layer may comprise photo-curing oligomer
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrode for low resistance and high-current is disclosed. The electrode for low resistance and high-current of the present disclosure comprises: a base; a hard coating layer disposed over the base; a metal layer disposed over the hard coating layer; conductive capping layers disposed over and under the metal layer, respectively; and a conductive functional layer disposed over the conductive capping layer disposed over the metal layer.