U-M researchers have created a transparent silver film that could be used in touchscreens, flexible displays, and other advanced applications. L. Jay Guo, professor of electrical engineering and computer science, holds up a piece of the material. (Joseph Xu/Michigan Engineering)
L. Jay Guo, professor of electrical engineering and computer science, has developed a “stainless” silver film that could change the way touchscreens and flat or flexible displays are made, and also help improve computing power. By combining silver with a little bit of aluminum, the U-M researchers found that it was possible to produce exceptionally thin, smooth conductive layers that are resistant to tarnishing. The team also showed that the silver coating could guide light about 10 times as far as other metal waveguides—a property that could make it useful for faster computing. A modern touch screen is made of a transparent conductive layer covered with a nonconductive layer. It senses electrical changes where a conductive object—such as a finger—is pressed against the screen. Currently, the transparent conductor market is dominated a material called indium tin oxide. “Before, it was very cheap,” says Guo. “Now, the price is rising sharply.” The ultrathin film could make silver a worthy successor.
