Solution-Processed Inks with Fillers of NbS${}_3$ Quasi-One-Dimensional Charge-Density-Wave Material

Abstract

We report on the solution processing and testing of electronic ink comprised of quasi-one-dimensional NbS${}_3$ charge-density-wave fillers. The ink was prepared by liquid-phase exfoliation of NbS${}_3$ crystals into high-aspect ratio quasi-1D fillers dispersed in a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and ethylene glycol solution. The results of the electrical measurements of two-terminal electronic test structures printed on silicon substrates reveal resistance anomalies in the temperature range of ~330 K to 370 K. It was found that the changes in the temperature-dependent resistive characteristics of the test structures originate from the charge-density-wave phase transition of individual NbS${}_3$ fillers. The latter confirms that the exfoliated NbS${}_3$ fillers preserve their intrinsic charge-density-wave quantum condensate states and can undergo phase transitions above room temperature even after chemical exfoliation processes and printing. These results are important for developing "quantum inks" with charge-density-wave fillers for the increased functionality of future solution-processed electronics.

25 pages; 5 figures