Stretchable, flexible, transparent PEDOT:PSS electrodes by doping strategy

Abstract

Flexible transparent electrodes (FTEs) have been widely used in the field of flexible optoelectronic devices due to their simultaneous conductivity and optical transmittance. However, traditional fabrication methods often struggle to achieve an optimal balance between high conductivity and flexibility, and may also involve high costs and complex processes. Consequently, developing a cost-effective strategy for the large-scale production of high-performance FTEs is crucial. Here, high-performance poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) spray-coated FTEs were prepared by optimizing the PEDOT:PSS conductive ink formulation through doping strategies. The PEDOT:PSS FTEs exhibit a surface resistance of 70 Ω/sq and a transmittance of 80 % at 550 nm. Notably, their optoelectronic properties remain stable after 100 bends, continuous illumination at 2.43 mW/cm², and exposure to 90 % relative humidity. In addition, large-scale FTEs (15 × 15 cm) were successfully produced using the spray-coating method and effectively implemented in flexible touch screens. These results show that optimized conductive ink formulations have great potential for the preparation of low-cost, large-area and uniform FTEs.