Composites of Shellac and Silver Nanowires as Flexible, Biobased, and Corrosion‐Resistant Transparent Conductive Electrodes

Abstract Silver nanowires (AgNWs) are a promising material to replace indium tin oxide as transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs) in next‐generation flexible optoelectronics. AgNWs are more environmental friendly than indium tin oxide, and offer solution processability, high conductivity, and high optical transparency. Embedding AgNWs at the surface of a polymer matrix creates a planar, conductive surface that is ideal for use in thin‐film devices. However, a barrier to practical use is corrosionin the ambient environment, which damages the AgNW network and reduces the workable life span. This study presents the use of shellac, an eco‐friendly natural biopolymer, as a planarizing and protective matrix for AgNWs. Shellac has a long history as a coating due to its excellent film‐forming ability and barrier properties, yet it has been largely unexplored in electronics. Here, the first shellac‐based TCE comprising a AgNW network embedded at the surface of a shellac matrix is reported. Shellac‐AgNW TCEs provide high conductivity and optical transparency, as well as mechanical stability under tensile strain. They also effectively function as TCEs in light‐emitting devices. Furthermore, the barrier properties of shellac protect AgNWs from corrosion in humid air and corrosive acid vapors. These results position shellac as a sustainable alternative to persistent synthetic polymers, in flexible electronics.