Fast plasmonic laser nanowelding for a Cu-nanowire percolation network for flexible transparent conductors and stretchable electronics

Abstract

A facile fast laser nanoscale welding process uses the plasmonic effect at a nanowire (NW) junction to suppress oxidation and successfully fabricate a Cu-NW-based percolation-network conductor. The "nanowelding" process does not require an inert or vacuum environment. Due to the low-temperature and fast-process nature, plasmonic laser nanowelding may form Cu-nanowire networks on heat-sensitive, flexible or even stretchable substrates.

Keywords: copper nanowires; flexible electronics; nanoscale welding; plasmonics; stretchable electronics.