Embedded nanopattern for selectively suppressed thermal conductivity and enhanced transparency in a transparent conducting oxide film

Transparent conductive oxide (TCO) thin films are cornerstones in many optoelectronic applications including displays, photovoltaics and touchscreens. In these devices, with simultaneous high optical transparency electrical conductivity needed. Ideally, heat generated during normal device operation must ideally be compensated for to achieve optimum functionality. One possible way address the thermal management problem is adding thermoelectric (TE) properties TCO films. However, improving TE while maintaining optimal challenging: transport deeply intertwined. Here, we demonstrate an approach allowing independent optimization of transparency, conductivity. An embedded nanopattern structure filled indium tin (ITO) sandwiched between two ITO layers. The resulting triple-layered exhibits reduced excellent This made by electron channels that electrically connect top bottom layers, at same time limiting phonon-mediated conduction. filling fraction thickness adjusted improve transmission, achieving higher than bare film. result a transparent triple layer film figures merit.