Recent Progress in Thin-Film Transistors toward Digital, Analog, and Functional Circuits

Micromachines (Basel). 2022 Dec 19;13(12):2258. doi: 10.3390/mi13122258.

Abstract

Thin-film transistors have been extensively developed due to their process merit: high compatibility with various substrates, large-area processes, and low-cost processes. Despite these advantages, most efforts for thin-film transistors still remain at the level of unit devices, so the circuit level for practical use needs to be further developed. In this regard, this review revisits digital and analog thin-film circuits using carbon nanotubes (CNTs), organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), organic semiconductors, metal oxides, and two-dimensional materials. This review also discusses how to integrate thin-film circuits at the unit device level and some key issues such as metal routing and interconnection. Challenges and opportunities are also discussed to pave the way for developing thin-film circuits and their practical applications.

Keywords: flexible circuits; gate dielectrics; metal oxides; organic semiconductors; plastic substrates; thin-film transistors.

Publication types

  • Review