Preparation and optimisation of transparent conducting patterns using inkjet printing

Transparent conducting patterns (TCPs) are critical components that are required to be integrated into photovoltaic (PV) cells for energy harvesting. Among the manufacturing processes that are available for the deposition of TCPs onto various substrates, inkjet printing which can be categorised as an additive dispensing process has demonstrated its competitiveness by offering numerous advantages, including non-contact, high resolution, high printing speed, low cost and low material consumption. However, the present bottlenecks to be overcome for further take-up of inkjet printing technology imperatively demand the understanding of materials behaviour involved in the ink formulation and printing process. This thesis is dedicated to the elaboration of fundamental aspects of technical challenges that have been encountered in the uses of inkjet printing technology for the generation of TCPs, thereby optimisation of functional properties of the printed patterns can be achievable through the modification of inks and optimum parameters used in the printing process. [Continues.]