Recent Progress in Silver Nanowire-Based Transparent Conductive Electrodes

Abstract

In this work, the recent progress in silver nanowire (AgNW)-based transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) is summarized. First, AgNWs are compared with other mainstream transparent conductive materials, highlighting their superior conductivity, flexibility, and transparency, which make them prime candidates for the application of next-generation flexible electronic devices. The key synthesis strategies—including template-based, hydrothermal/solvothermal, and polyol methods—are then discussed and how fabrication processes such as printing, spin coating, dip coating, spray coating, and vacuum filtration govern the electrical, optical, and mechanical properties of AgNW networks is examined. Special attention is given to AgNW composites with carbon, polymers, and metal oxides, underscoring how these hybrid approaches boost conductivity, durability, and environmental stability. To illustrate AgNWs’ versatility, their applications in sensors, solar cells, electronic skin, electromagnetic shielding, heating devices, nanogenerators, and various electrode systems are presented. Notably, the capacity of AgNWs to maintain functionality under mechanical deformation points to broad potential in wearable and flexible devices. Despite these advances, challenges remain. The conclusion is drawn by examining future prospects for AgNWs in emerging fields such as smart textiles, advanced energy harvesting, and transparent electronics, emphasizing how ongoing innovations in fabrication and composite engineering could further unlock AgNWs’ impact on next-generation technologies.