Materials and strategies for enhancing the reliability of AgNW-based flexible electronics: a review

Abstract Silver nanowires (AgNWs), which are one-dimensional metallic nanomaterials, have attracted a great deal of attention owing to their superior electrical conductivity, flexibility and transparency. AgNWs have found extensive applications in the realm of flexible and stretchable electronics, where they act as flexible conducting networks. However, AgNWs face severe reliability challenges, including mechanical fracture, chemical corrosion and thermal failures, when dispersed in a polymer matrix. To tackle this issue, numerous strategies involving surface modification and passivation have been proposed. This review discusses the underlying failure mechanisms of AgNWs, with a particular focus on the effective strategies for enhancing the reliability of AgNWs and their composite materials. Finally, insights into potential strategies for enhancing the reliability of AgNWs and boosting their industrial deployment are also described.