Fabrication of transparent substrates based on chitin nanofibers for optoelectronic devices

Abstract

This study introduces a new version of transparent papers made of self-assembled nanofibers of chitin (ChNF) and bio-inspired ChNF transparent composite film made of the organic/inorganic hybrid materials reinforced with ChNF. Compared to synthetic plastic films, the ChNF transparent paper and ChNF transparent composite film exhibit an outstanding optical clarity, a high modulus, and a low thermal expansion etc. As a proof-of-concept, flexible organic light-emitting diodes, flexible perovskite solar cells, and touch screen panel devices are fabricated using the ChNF transparent paper and ChNF transparent composite film as a substrate. This is the first demonstration that such optoelectronic systems are fabricated using ChNF transparent paper and ChNF transparent composite film. Given its promising macroscopic properties, bio-friendly characteristics, and availability of the raw material, the utilization of ChNF transparent paper and ChNF transparent composite film as a transparent substrate for optoelectronic devices may be envisaged.