Synthesis, UV-VIS Spectroscopy and Conductivity of Silver Nanowires

Abstract

In this work, we report on the synthesis of silver nanowires (AgNW) by a modified polyole process. Conductive thin films were prepared from synthesized nanowires; then their basic properties were characterized. The influence of the raw materials, solvents, washing and centrifugal separation of these synthesized AgNWs was studied. UV-VIS absorption/transmission spectra of clear solutions were measured, and the size of AgNWs was estimated from these measurements. We also studied the influence of light on synthesized AgNWs in solution, and performed optical microscopy studies to identify possible aggregation processes. Thin films of AgNWs were fabricated on different transparent flexible substrates by a spray-coating process and other coating techniques. The optical transparency and the sheet resistance of these films were also measured. The influence of some additives on the properties of these thin films was checked. Due to the high flexibility and electrical conductivity of AgNW thin films, these nanoproducts are excellent candidates for touch screen displays, solar cells conductive layers and other electronic devices.